There are different ways to find motivation. But how effective are these methods?

As I approach the end of my term as the online editor of The Flor-Ala, I realize that one major determiner in my success has been self-motivation.

Looking back, I realize how self-motivation is essential. The first thing I do when I run low on motivation is talk to God. It does not matter where I am at the moment. I will make my problems known to my creator. As I wait on God to fix the situation, I talk to myself and give myself a pep talk.

While I was still pondering on these thoughts, I realized apart from talking to God, talking to myself also helps me. You are your own motivation. Constantly encouraging yourself and staying committed after motivation leads to success, according to an article by Fareed Siddiqui, individual member of Institute of Management Consultants of India.

If, for instance, there is someone who is always encouraging you and they happen to leave, your motivation might leave with them. This keeps you from reaching your goals.

“One of the main reasons why self-motivation is important in your life is it does not let you depend on others, and you can achieve success in your own goals and objectives that you set on the basis of your abilities, while it aids you to eradicate your weakness that hinders your success,” according to the article.

Self-motivation requires a lot of positive thinking and strong will to act on one’s goals. I force myself to think positively in all situations and to really guard my thoughts. My thoughts shape me.

In order to love others, you need to love yourself first. In order to motivate others, you need to motivate yourself accordingly. It needs to come from within, and it will shine on the outside. Whatever you tell yourself shows on the outside in the way you talk, the things you say and the energy you bring out. These are all contagious.

It all begins with you. I encourage you all to be your own No. 1 fan. Monologues are essential. When all else fails and the world is against you, have yourself to fall back on. Former football coach Homer Rice said, “You can motivate by fear. You can motivate by reward. But those methods are only temporary. The only lasting thing is self-motivation.”