Everyone believes in, hopes for and fears different things. Therefore, we’re all motivated by different things. These quotes are on the wall above my desk:
Robert Rodriguez: Action comes before inspiration.
Sam Altman: Do a few things relentlessly.
Steven Pressfield: This very moment we can change our lives. There never was a moment, and never will be, when we are without the power to alter our destiny. This second, we can sit down and do our work.
John O’Donohue: The way you look at things is the most powerful force in shaping your life. In a vital sense, perception is reality.
What do these quotes tell you about my beliefs? Clearly I like to be reminded that I can do stuff. And that good things can happen when I do! I also believe that managing my perceptions and beliefs is a vital form of action too.
What do you believe in? What moves you to action or revives you when you’re struggling? Do you know yourself well enough to know what inspires you and why?
Understanding your motivations matters if you’re trying to become a great communicator. To understand where you end and the other person begins you need to know yourself. When you recognize your motivations, beliefs and biases you can spot differences. You can cross unconscious barriers to communicate with people whose motivations, beliefs and biases are different than yours. You can become a great communicator.
Communication is the essential last mile in finding and motivating the right teams, acquiring strong allies, powerfully bonding with customers, and capturing mindshare with compelling stories. Nothing will serve you and your vision better than developing exceptional communication skills.
