Unfiltered thoughts pt. 10- "When motivation doesn't show up..."

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When Motivation Doesn’t Show Up

Sometimes, you feel the drag, but you push through anyway. That’s what society expects of us—to keep going, regardless of whether we’re truly headed in the right direction. But I ask you—where’s the drive?

Have you taken a moment to reflect on why you do what you do? What’s the purpose behind it all? Is it the quest for happiness, the desire to bring joy to those around you, or is it simply the act of doing itself? It’s a challenging question. I’ve spoken to people of all ages about their life’s purpose, and many struggle to articulate an answer.

Yet, I’ve found clarity in the unspoken response: The Pursuit.

If someone finds joy in their actions, why complicate things by demanding a concrete purpose? Embrace the pursuit. And remember—it’s normal to lose motivation now and then.

Purpose Fuels Motivation

The reality is that purpose drives motivation. When motivation doesn't show up-, it’s important to seek out your purpose.

At times, life just doesn’t feel right. Nothing seems to be happening; you find yourself caught in loops of overthinking, feeling like everyone else’s social life is more exciting than yours. When you feel stuck, you may miss your goals by just a slight margin. You know you need to work hard, but sometimes lethargy creeps in quietly, without you even realising it.

Personal issues, family dynamics, relationships, and all the “equations” that come with them (a term I picked up in a recent conversation with someone) can affect motivation—both positively and negatively.

And let’s be honest: we all need people and favourable situations to feel motivated. But that aspect of life isn’t always in our control. Will people behave as we hope? Will they motivate us the way we want? Some are lucky in that regard, but not always.

So, there has to be your own generator of motivation.

When Motivation Doesn’t Show Up

Breathe. Relax (but not too much, okay?).

Think about what made you start the thing you’re working on. How will you feel when you finally complete it? Think about your potential. Your power.

And when thinking alone doesn’t help, talk to someone for a while. If you’d rather avoid human interaction, do something you enjoy—give your brain a treat! (Sometimes, doing nothing for a while can also be a brain treat.)

Take a walk, work out, read, listen to music—whatever works. But here’s the truth: unless there’s an inner command—that self-driven push to act—nothing and no one can help.

This inner command can include:

  • Self-talk

  • Determination

  • And ultimately, desire.

Another Technique: Think of the Future

Whatever it may be—the outcome, the benefits, the pride, even the material rewards—future-thinking can light a spark. Parents often use this method:

"10th ke baad aram hi aram!"
"NEET ke baad life set!"
"Degree ke baad toh zindagi hi ban jayegi!"

Don't fall for this. And importantly, these are milestones or part of the process and never mistake them as goals or purpose.

Motivation tends to show up if you have this checklist:

  • Desire

  • Purpose

  • Hard and smart work

  • Satisfaction

When motivation doesn’t show up, ask yourself:

  • Do I truly desire what I’m doing?

  • What purpose does it serve?

  • Am I working hard and smart for it?

If your answer is “no” to any of these, stop looping over “I’m not motivated.” If what you desire truly demands it, start working toward it anyway.

Are you satisfied with your approach? If not, fail, learn, change, and move forward.

And remind yourself of this timeless proverb (mean it, don’t just quote it):
“Where there is a will, there is a way.”

The Final Tool: Inspiration

When motivation doesn’t show up, stories can. Read about people who achieved a lot with fewer resources and fewer excuses than you. Their journeys can ignite desire and determination within you.

So, Whenever Everything Feels Dull:

  1. Alert yourself.

  2. Take a moment.

  3. Reflect.

  4. Look at your motivation checklist.

  5. Express your emotions—clear out the clutter.

  6. Recall your purpose.

  7. Get back at it.

One Last Question to Ask Yourself:

Why am I doing this?

Love your purpose like anything, and motivation will show up—fuming.

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