With the fog of January in the past, I've been thinking a lot about motivation. What gets me going and how I can help others with theirs this year.
And it led me to why I never smoked a cigarette.
Motivation, I learned recently, translates from its Latin derivative to mean "reason for action".
How does one get motivated?
By having a compelling reason to take action.
And my reason for action (or inaction as it relates to cigs), sometimes consciously and most times subconsciously, is my 10-year-old self. I've wanted to share this for years, but was afraid of sounding like a narcissist; however, I think this might be something that could help with reflection on what motivates you.
For me, it's "what would 10-year-old Jon think about my actions right now?"
At 10, you're perfectly innocent. Naive to the world outside of riding bikes, playing baseball, and dreading school, AND you have a pretty keen awareness that you should do your best.
This 10-year-old, as it turns out, is also very judgmental of this future self and keeps an eye on me day-to-day.
Whether it's a baseball card, your 10-year-old at home, friends, or your future self, there is power in reflecting on what really motivates you & using it to your advantage.
What's your reason for action?
Have a great February!!
Jon
Things to Consider:
- As a father of three boys and a dude myself, I spend a lot of time in the Manosphere. However, last month I enjoyed watching the six-part series at the end of the Era's tour. Her music speaks for itself, but the way her colleagues speak of her was really impressive. I think I'm a Swifty.
- Do your kids like to build stuff? This Crunch Labs kit is awesome.
- Sleep Enhancements - Mouth Tape & Grounding Sheets are must-haves.
- Have ADD? Me too. I've used the 'pomodoro technique' for years, and my amazing wife just showed me this epic timer to help focus. It's incredible.
Add to your Reading / Listening List:
- Arthur Brooks / Dave Rubin Podcast about finding meaning in the online world.
- Sharing my New Year's, live your best life reading recommendations.
- Plus all New Year's recommendations to help you get dialed in 2026.
- I love this article about becoming the person you'll need to be before you accomplish what you want to accomplish.
- I get asked about supplements all the time, so I laid out everything I'm currently on. I'm not saying it's right for you, but I've done a lot of trial and error, so I'm hoping it helps a bit.
If you've got people in your life who should be training here anyway, this is a win for everyone.
Let's keep growing this thing with good humans.
Saw this recently and loved it: "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." — Winston Churchill