Teen Space

Push yourself

Figure pushing the word yourself

Trial may lead to error. And yet at times you see that another trial leads you to success. The difference always lies in the way you push yourself to try harder each time. There surely is something that pushes you up, higher and higher, out of the dumps, up to the baseline, then above it; and eventually to the sky. The key to every lock that seals your mind and curbs its tremendous potential is motivation.

What is motivation?

Motivation is the driving factor that pushes you to a goal. You may get driven to accomplish a certain target because of your inner desire to excel and lay your mark, as well as the sheer attractiveness of the reward that may often be associated with it. We get motivated to do the things we like, things that give us pleasure, acts that make us feel good and deeds that prevent pain and accentuate happiness and pleasure.

Why do we need motivation?

Human beings have a remarkable ability to learn from their past setbacks. We try things again and again till we succeed in getting them right, because we have drivers within us. We are goaded creatures. Our goals may be intrinsic (personal, to please oneself) as well as extrinsic (to please others). In either case we direct ourselves to pursue the cause to some or the other rationale. Intrinsic motivation drives one internally, to excel not for a reward; but the desire to master what he or she may be doing. Extrinsic motivators may be marks or grades or money or publicity. But introspection is important to know why you do what you do.

Take charge

It is quintessential for you to take accountability for yourself. It may be your will to perk up on your looks, tone up your body, improvise your wardrobe, build friendships, strengthen relationships, expand a social circle, excel in education, sport, career, hobbies, and your life in totality. Once you take charge and bear the weight of all these on your shoulders, you will automatically wake up early, exercise, eat healthy food, study, do your homework, make friends, play your sport, sleep well and keep your temper under control. The core traits that will help you sail through your choices in each of these dimensions of life: your self-confidence, competence in what you do and autonomy in your thought and action.

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Dr Shefali Batra is a Psychiatrist and Mindfulness Coach. Connect with her on Instagram @drshefalibatra and read more about her work at drshefalibatra.com.

Dr Shefali Batra

Dr Shefali Batra is a Psychiatrist and Mindfulness Coach. Connect with her on Instagram @drshefalibatra and read more about her work at drshefalibatra.com.