Unraveling the Tapestry of Motivation: A Personal Reflection

Discussing motivations is inherently fascinating, as it often leads to self-discoveries we may not have anticipated. As I write this, I find myself revisiting my childhood. At the age of 7, my introduction to running came in an unusual form—being chased by my older brother. It's a peculiar revelation, but I now recognize that part of my athletic drive was ignited in those playful pursuits. While I might not have appreciated his antics back then, today, I view them as a foundational chapter in my athletic narrative.

This leads me to an important reflection: What drives us? Often, our motivations aren't inherently negative or misguided; however, they warrant a closer examination. In the realm of athletics, understanding and occasionally re-evaluating our driving forces is crucial. Motivations that once propelled us forward may no longer align with who we have become.

In my youth, my primary motivation was the pursuit of victory and the dream of the Olympics, driven by a deep-seated need for validation. I pushed myself to extremes, often at the expense of my well-being, all in search of feeling 'worthy.' As time passed, I realized that my sense of worth was not contingent on accolades or achievements. I was always worthy; I just hadn't recognized it.

Understanding our motivations is essential because they shape our journey. If we cling to outdated or misaligned motivations, we risk pursuing goals for the wrong reasons. Now, as a personal trainer, I still relish the thrill of victory, but not for validation. I enjoy it for the sheer love of the sport. This introspection is crucial for anyone embarking on a fitness journey. Why do you want to lose weight, run a marathon, or regain fitness? Every reason is valid, but it’s vital to identify any that might impede progress.

Reflecting on this, I was reminded of the documentary 'Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead' 1 and 2. Despite their modest ratings, these films resonated with me, particularly Phil's story. His journey of losing and then regaining weight underscored the complexity of motivations. For Phil, weight gain was a coping mechanism for loneliness—a poignant example of how our deeper emotional needs can manifest in physical ways.

To unravel these complex layers, I advocate for journaling. It's not just about documenting workouts; it's about capturing the thoughts and emotions that accompany them. Often, it's the feelings surrounding our actions that hold the key to understanding ourselves better. This doesn’t require lengthy writing sessions; even brief notes can reveal patterns and trigger transformative insights.

As we navigate through life, we are constantly evolving. The goal isn't just to passively experience change, but to actively shape it in ways that align with our true selves and aspirations. In this journey of self-discovery and growth, understanding our motivations is not just insightful—it's fundamental.