I’m on daily quest to find motivation. It’s what get me amped to start the day. And, I use it whenever I’m in a slump. But, on-top of intrinsic motivation, I also search for motivating content. It gives me a little jolt, as well as some solid ideas on how to motivate others.
While I’ve found motivation to be all-around, here’s ten of my favorite sources.
1. Books
You don’t have to be an avid reader like me. But, when you’re feeling blah and need a shot in the arm, there’s nothing better than picking-up a book. That’s because reading fills your head with knowledge, inspiration, and creativity.
It can also enhance your writing, memory, and concentration. Best of all? It can be free – just visit your local library.
If you’re not much of a reader, at least give audiobooks a try during your morning commute or when you’re exercising.
2. TED Talks
One line says it all: “Ideas worth spreading.” TED Talks come from a variety of inspiring and remarkable people. For example, hearing Richard Browning share how he built a jet suit was one of the coolest and uplifting things I’ve ever seen.
You can watch and listen to them for free. And, they’re usually under ten minutes so you can easily fit them into your schedule.
3. Commencement Speeches
I dare you not to watch Steve Jobs iconic Stanford Commencement Speech in 2005 and not be moved. It remains one of the most motivational pieces of content I’ve seen. And I quote it regularly in my content.
Other notable commencement speeches are J.K. Rowling’s Harvard Commencement Speech and Neil Gaiman’s Commencement Speech at the University of the Arts.
4. Podcasts
Like audiobooks, you can listen to a podcast whenever and wherever you like. While there are a variety of topics to choose from, I find the most inspiration from entrepreneurs.
I’m a big fan of The Tim Ferriss show. It’s given me a lot of tips to keep myself motivated, while also giving me new ideas thanks to the advice of the awesome guests.
5. RSS Feeds
RSS feeds are the best way to get all the news that you want to read online. I blend my feed with industry news, sites I find entertaining, and motivational blogs. This way I get updates daily so that I have fodder for my content.
A few of my personal favorites are: http://www.brainpickings.org/, Tinybuddha.com, Zenhabits.net, Marieforleo.com, Jamesclear.com, and https://www.garyvaynerchuk.com/.
6. Quotes
As Fast Company notes, the appeal of quotes is due to “a combination of good wordsmithing, motivational psychology, and a measure of self-selection.”
I know that can lift my spirits when I’m down. But, I’ve also collected my favorites to help inspire my fellow entrepreneurs.
7. TV/Movies
While you shouldn’t spend hours per day watching TV or motives, there can still be used to motivate you. And, also create motivating content.
For example, Netflix is full of amazing documentaries that have made me a better entrepreneur. I highly suggest that you check some of these out, like Jiro Dreams of Sushi and Happy.
8. Quora
Quora’s mission statement?
“Share and grow the world’s knowledge.”
What started out as a Q&A site, now includes blogs and reviews. I’ve found Quora a great place get motivational content that’s already out there and spin it into my own. And, if I need some suggestions or inspiration, I can always just ask the Quora community.
9. Case Studies
If you’re running a business, then you probably should be publishing your own case studies. It’s one of the best ways to see how your business has helped someone else achieve their goals. It also gives you a piece of content that people love to view and show – especially if you sum everything up in an infographic.
If you haven’t conducted any case studies of your own, then at least check-out the work that companies within your industry have already found. It can either give you an idea for a blog post or by used to validate your own opinions.
10. Medium
Medium is an online publishing platform developed by Twitter co-founder Evan Williams. It’s another excellent source of motivation since it shares advice from experts who share their experiences and advice.
Over the years, the content published on Medium has encouraged me to think differently or try different approaches.
