Finding Motivation: A Personal and Broader Perspective

Motivation is something we all struggle with at times, whether we’re trying to get through daily tasks, tackle big life goals, or push through difficult moments. In today’s world, finding that drive can feel especially challenging with all the distractions and pressures we face. In this post, we’re going to take a closer look at what motivates us, how to find motivation in challenging times, and some personal reflections on how we stay motivated as individuals and as a team.

What Drives Us?

On a general level, motivation often boils down to self-interest. There’s nothing wrong with that—after all, we all need something to strive for, whether it’s financial success, personal growth, or simply the satisfaction of accomplishing something. But in modern society, we’ve developed complex ways of measuring success, and people are often motivated by a desire to rise above others, either through power, wealth, or social influence.

However, motivation isn’t always driven by material gain. Some people find motivation through causes they care about, whether it’s activism, environmentalism, or helping others. While these actions can seem selfless, they often come with a sense of personal fulfilment or pride. At the end of the day, it’s natural to seek rewards for our efforts, and the balance between personal and external motivations is key to understanding why we do what we do.

The Struggle to Find Motivation

Finding motivation can be hard, especially when life feels overwhelming. Many people struggle with motivation when they’re going through tough times—whether it’s mental health struggles, depression, or simply feeling stuck. One of the best sayings I’ve heard is, “Make the most of the good times,” but it’s important to remember that hard times will always outnumber the good ones. That’s why we need to cling to those moments of happiness and use them as fuel to keep going.

The Right Environment for Motivation

Motivation is very individual, but it’s also important to acknowledge that the right environment plays a huge role in keeping people driven. Whether you thrive under pressure or need more time to process things, the work environment can either foster or stifle motivation. We live in a society that pushes people to grow up too fast, and often, there’s not enough structure or opportunity for young adults to explore what they really want to do.

But not everyone needs to be a high achiever—sometimes it’s okay to be a cog in the wheel. Society functions because we have people who fill different roles, from leaders and innovators to workers who keep things running smoothly. Everyone plays a part, and it’s okay to find motivation in simply doing your job well, even if it’s not glamorous.

My Personal Motivation

For me, motivation has always come from my love of games and the desire to create new worlds. As a child, I was captivated by the magic of fantasy creatures and mystical places that defied the rules of our own reality. The idea of bringing those worlds to life through games has always driven me forward. However, there was also a time when I wanted to support others—first as a lawyer, then as a teacher—but I eventually found that video games were a unique way to help people think critically and learn in an engaging way.

When motivation wanes, I remind myself what I’m working towards. Having structure and breaking up my day helps, as does working alongside others and taking regular breaks to refresh. Most of all, though, my kids are my biggest motivation. Thinking about their future keeps me moving forward, even in the toughest moments.

Advice for Staying Motivated

If you’re struggling to find motivation, my biggest piece of advice is to take a break—not to stop what you’re doing entirely, but to conserve your energy. Slowing down is okay, and most people are more understanding than we might expect when you need extra time to complete something. It’s important to be open and honest, and ask for help when you need it. You’ll find that many people are willing to offer the extra time or support you require.

Another key is to celebrate small wins. It’s easy to get caught up in the big picture, but recognizing those small victories along the way is essential for keeping your momentum. And remember, failure is part of the process. Every wrong turn is one step closer to figuring out the right way. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes—embrace them as learning opportunities.

At the end of the day, motivation comes from having something to work toward. Whether it’s family, personal achievement, or the satisfaction of helping others, finding that one thing that matters most can help you stay focused, even when the journey feels tough.

What Drives You?

We’d love to hear from you—what do you think is your greatest motivator? Let us know in the comments!