Many people use the terms “inspiration” and “motivation” interchangeably.
But is there a difference? I think so.
When I try to motivate myself, more often than not I’m pushing myself to do something that I may not want to do or may not care about. I have to psyche myself up, pound on my chest like a gorilla, and release some guttural sounds before plunging into whatever it is I need to do.
It’s not always fun.
Inspiration comes from a completely different place. The word inspiration means to be in spirit. When I’m inspired, I’m tuned into and aligned with spirit. I find myself in an effortless flow and naturally drawn to whatever feels best. I find myself feeling fulfilled.
It’s always fun.
Motivation, on the other hand, helps us to complete tasks that we think we should do or that we’re supposed to do. It doesn’t lead to much growth inside of us because it’s not a passionate, burning desire that emanates from our core of being. When the task is done, it’s done, and that’s it.
Inspiration, however, is about being called to act because you are in direct harmonious alignment with your Source Energy.
How do you know when you’re in spirit? You won’t feel pushed to do something; you will feel pulled toward it. You will feel called to do it because it comes from your core. Life will feel effortless. Your passion will burn steady, and you will feel energized and more alive than ever.
In a nutshell, motivation is the push, and inspiration is the pull.
Motivation is external, while inspiration is internal.
How do you define inspiration and motivation?
