What Motivates You?

[LSPoorEeyorick]

It's a super question for those who don't like their jobs. Because how do we all get along in them, anyway? I've been in a really horrible OK-pay job for two and a half years, and there was a period when I was only doing the minimum required. As it turns out, the minimum required isn't actually the minimum required. If you do it long enough, they begin to notice and you have to step up the pace to ensure that you can pay your bills.

Paying my bills. That motivates me.

But as for my evening work? My writing? My miserable day job inspires me-- I don't want to do it anymore. My desire to be creative inspires me. The Artist's Way inspires me. (And it might inspire you, too.)

Perhaps what you're really discovering, Chris, is that you envision a different kind of life for yourself. Something creative. Something that allows you to use your skills for good and not for evil. (Oh, wait, that's just me; insurance is the chosen career of Satan, you know.) And I encourage you to try to motivate yourself in your regular job-- but to also think outside of it. Have you ever wanted to write a novel? A travel guide? Have you ever wanted to be a silversmith? A filmmaker? A pastry chef? It is never too late.