Motivation vs Inspiration
Posted on April 13, 2015 by Shenita Sanders MA CPPC , One of Thousands of Life Coaches on Noomii.
Do you know the difference between motivation and inspiration?
Motivation and inspiration are two words that we use often but rarely grasp their important differences. As a life coach, I find myself helping clients distinguish the important differences and how they impact daily living. Let’s take a look.
Motivation helps us to accomplish goals. It uses external influences to move us closer to a desired result. For example, I need to lose weight. I am anxious about looking good in my bathing suit. This will require diet and exercise.
My motivation here is to look good in my bathing suit. My methods are diet and exercise. Chances are, I could lose motivation and will need more to complete my goal.
Inspiration is driven by an internal force that moves us closer to a desired result. We benefit from a divine guidance that takes hold of us and leads us to our goal. Inspiration has a beautiful way of connecting us to our values, purpose, and strengths. For example, I enjoy living a healthier and happier lifestyle. It’s important to make an investment into my health. As a result, I feel better about myself and I look better in my clothes.
Simply put, motivation comes from outside in and inspiration comes from inside out. One is not better than the other. However, when used properly, they both can be powerful tools for success.