Hi, I’m Mochi. Today, I’d like to explore the idea of “motivation” — not from a productivity angle, but more like an observation journal.
Motivation feels so unpredictable sometimes, right? It shows up when it wants, disappears when you need it most. But after watching myself closely, I’ve started to think there might be patterns — or even a system — behind it.
■ Feeling Unmotivated Usually Comes with Negativity
For me, the moment I notice “I have no motivation” is usually when I’m in a negative headspace. Maybe something bad happened, or maybe there’s no clear reason — just that overall low-energy cloud.
But here’s the thing: it’s not that I can’t do the task. If I really tried, I probably could. It’s more like… the hill to get started just feels extra steep.
So maybe:
Lack of motivation = not zero energy, but high internal friction.
That reframe alone already feels less hopeless.
■ What Motivation Feels Like (When It’s There)
On the flip side, when I do feel motivated, it’s almost always tied to fun or curiosity. I’m excited. My brain is bouncing. The ideas are clicking.
- I’ve got something I want to write
- I just thought of an experiment I want to try
- I feel like I’m onto something cool
When that happens, it doesn’t feel like “motivation” — more like momentum.
So maybe:
Motivation isn’t something to summon, but something that emerges under certain conditions.
■ Triggered by a Compliment? Social Switches Matter
Another thing: people’s words have a weird power over my motivation.
When someone says “That’s amazing” or “This is so you,” my motivation suddenly spikes. But if someone just tells me “Do this” — even gently — it’s like my brain crosses its arms and refuses.
So maybe:
Motivation isn’t just about the task — it’s about the relationship surrounding it.
Being trusted, given freedom, or being relied on — those seem to work way better than commands.
■ Unmotivated Days = Observation Days
Here’s something I’ve learned: the days I feel unmotivated aren’t useless. In fact, they’re full of clues — if I bother to look.
- What’s stopping me from starting?
- Is it fear, boredom, resistance?
- What would lower the entry bar?
Exploring these makes me feel like motivation might just be… a mechanical setup.
■ Summary: Motivation Might Be a System We Can Design
Here’s what seems to work for me:
- Doing something I genuinely enjoy or feel curious about
- Being trusted with a task or role
- Feeling the pressure of a deadline (especially when indecisive)
So maybe instead of trying to “be motivated,” we can:
- Lower the friction
- Spark curiosity
- Remove escape routes (gently)
With those conditions, motivation tends to follow.
Even when you’re stuck, asking “What’s blocking me?” might lead to a surprisingly useful answer.
Until next time!
