The Motivation Paradigm, Part 3: Fear vs. Love

“There are two basic motivating forces: fear and love. When we are afraid, we pull back from life. When we are in love, we open to all that life has to offer with passion, excitement, and acceptance”. ~ John Lennon

Fear can be a powerful motivator, especially in the short term. In the long term, we are always better when we can live our lives in love.

Where does your motivation come from? Are you focused on the benefits of your discipline or are you afraid of what will happen if you let down? I believe this is the highest learning about motivation. And I hope you can share it with your students.

At the medically based YMCA where I work, many of our members come to us out of fear. They have endured a life-altering health event or a frightening diagnosis. They have a powerful motivator to make the changes necessary for them to stay alive and healthy.

6 Comments

  1. Awesome. I love this. Amen. Can’t wait to share these thoughts with my students.

    1. Author

      Thanks, Deanna. I appreciate you saying so. Good luck and come back here if you get any interesting reactions.
      Good wishes in your teaching.

  2. Love this! Thanks so much!

    1. Author

      Thank you, Colleen.

  3. Author

    Thanks Renee. I am happy if you see something you can use.

  4. Lovely Bill! Thank you for motivating and cueing me.

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