Inspiration vs. Motivation vs. Willpower: Which is best for business success
Anybody running a business knows it is not a walk in the park. It’s a roller coaster of highs and lows. When it’s low, which will keep you going? Understanding the difference between each one and when to apply them will help you overcome challenges and improve your relationship with your business.
Inspiration: The spark of creativity
Inspiration comes from within and is aligned with your values and aspirations. It leads to actions that have a long-term impact. It generates the highest level of energy and while happening spontaneously. Inspiration is associated with:
  1. Clarity of thoughts
  2. Innovation
  3. Excitement
  4. Unpredictability
However, by having a daily and conscious connection with their “why”, a business owner can tame inspiration and call upon it when needed the most.
Motivation: The long-term driver
Motivation arises from a connection made between an action plan and a positive outcome. It enables sustained activity with a moderate cost of energy. Motivation often arises when:
  1. The actions are perceived as easy, enjoyable or low-energy
  2. The connection with a positive outcome is obvious or instant
  3. Evidence of progress is experienced
  4. Positive feedback, external rewards, or recognition is received
Motivation is the engine for consistent behaviours that deliver results. It can be nurtured by developing a supportive environment by balancing out the energy cost of execution with the energy input from progress and positive outcomes.
Willpower: The mental strength
Willpower is a rational decision in the face of temptation or adversity. It has the highest energy costs and, as such, cannot be sustained over a long period. When over-used, it leads to poor decision-making.
Willpower is characterized by:
  1. Self-discipline
  2. Delayed gratification
  3. Rational response to unexpected setbacks
  4. Short-lived superpower
Willpower should be called upon for a sprint, not a marathon. It will get you out of trouble but cannot be relied upon as a strategy for success.
The recipe for long-term achievement is a careful mixture of all three.
  • Inspiration provides the vision and innovative ideas
  • Motivation is the source of sustained activity for predictable results
  • Willpower is called upon when the going gets tough
To thrive, a business owner must cultivate each one by:
  1. Regularly reconnect with their "why" to boost inspiration
  2. Break large goals into milestones
  3. Create a supportive environment that minimizes willpower drains
  4. Celebrate small wins to maintain motivation
  5. Develop strategies to replenish each element when it’s depleted
Understanding and nurturing inspiration, motivation, and willpower can provide you with a powerful toolkit for navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. By leveraging these distinct yet complementary forces, you'll be better equipped to turn your business vision into reality and sustain success over the long term.

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