I had dinner with an old friend last night. I have referenced this friend in previous blog posts. This is the type of friend that encourages critical thinking, creative thought, and lively dialogue. Invariably, I leave conversations with this friend feeling energized, challenged, and most of all, inspired.
One of the ideas that surfaced during our conversation revolved around the differences between motivation and inspiration. In order to provide a bit of context, our conversation last night was about YMCA work, but I believe that the thought process is applicable in many arenas.
As we began to talk about jobs, career pathing, job performance etc., the word motivation continued to surface. I made the comment that motivation and inspiration were very different. My thought: we can all find things to motivate us. We may be motivated by the opportunity for promotion, the fear of failure, the desire for recognition, competition among peers, or the stability of our current situation.
Inspiration, on the other hand, is quite different. Inspiration drives for true growth, energy and passion about our work, and ultimately, the drive that it takes to continue to evolve and progress.
During last night's conversation, motivation was linked to management and maintenance, but inspiration was linked to development and growth.
So, the question is, where can one find inspiration? I recognize that this answer differs for each of us.
If we, collectively, wish to leave management "mode" and enter development "mode" what will drive us to do so? Or, is the status quo too comfortable? Will we shun potential sources of inspiration in order to simply maintain what we are currently doing?
Where do you find inspiration?
Thursday, May 6, 2010
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