I love, love, love a good mystery novel, film or television show.

One of my favorite book series is written by Valerie Wilson Wesley. Her fictional character, Tamara Hayle, skillfully sleuths her way around town to solve crimes. She is defiant, calculating and witty.

Most of all she is determined.

You can usually catch me binge watching Law & Order, NCIS or Chicago PD on the weekends. I am all in watching them gather evidence, interview witnesses and interrogate suspects.

The clock is ticking and the race is on to identify means, motive and opportunity.

A case is rock solid when you have established did the person have the ability and resources, did they have a compelling reason and where they in position to commit the crime?

Means, motive and opportunity.

But this blog is not about crime. It is about motivation. I believe there is an interesting correlation between this threefold crime-solving theory and success.

Today, motive is word that really stands out to me. Motive is the reason, the intention, for doing something. The why.

You might remember getting in trouble as a child and being drilled, “why did you do that?”

Maybe you set a goal and shared with a friend who inquired, “why is that important?”

There is no escaping it … you need a why … you need a motive to take action.

And you need a motive to succeed.

Motivation can be extrinsic or intrinsic. Extrinsic motivation aims for rewards, prizes, praise and such. These motivators are external to your being. They are also things you can earn or gain.

Intrinsic motivation comes from within. Accomplishing the goal is satisfying enough. You do it because you want to and it feels good.

Both forms of motivation are good for you. The point here is to be motivated to achieve your goal. So when you set a goal be sure to identify your motive.

It is your key to success.

If you are struggling to achieve a goal or identify your why, here are some tips for establishing your motive.

Meaningful: A goal that has significance and meaning is motivating. Its meaning is connected to your values and desires. Meaning is also derived from the rewards of achieving your goal.

• What makes achieving this goal important to you?
• What is the significance of the goal in your life?

Optimistic: A motivating goal gives you hope for a brighter future. You have positive thoughts about your dreams. You envision outcomes that improve your quality of life.

• What do you feel when you think about achieving your goal?
• What will be better because you have achieved the goal?
• What inspiring images does the goal spark?

Thrilling: An exhilarating goal makes you feel excited.  You are delighted to focus on your goal. You find pleasure in doing the work to achieve it.

• Does your adrenaline rush when focused on your goal?
• Are you anticipating being successful?
• Are you eager to do the work required to achieve your goal?

Impactful: Achieving your goal will evoke transformation in your life. You evolve and grow as you pursue the goal. You become more confident. Your self-esteem increases.

• What changes have you made to achieve your goal?
• What new habits have you established?
• What new things do you focus on?
• What new things do you enjoy?

Virtuous: A worthy goal aligns with your highest value —  health, finances, relationships, for example. They reflect your desired standard of living. They are connected to your rules of life, your moral code.

• What value is reflected in the goal you have identified?
• What does this goal reveal about me?
• How is this goal connected to righteous living?

Energizing: An energizing goal carries you through the bleak moments. You are eager to tackle the day. The thought of pursing and achieving the goal has you wound up. It keeps you going.

• How does your goal inspire action?
• How do you feel when thinking about your goal?
• How do you feel when you have taken action towards achieving your goal?

What goal are you pursuing and what is your motive?  Please share your thoughts in the comments section, I’d love to hear from you.

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