Is Motivation Overrated?

Hot take — but hear me out.

I’m not here to discredit personal coaches or self-help gurus. Motivation does play a role in our growth journeys. It can light a spark, fuel a breakthrough, or get you moving when you’ve been standing still.

But here’s the truth I’ve come to learn:

Motivation might start the fire, but it rarely keeps it burning.

I was chasing change externally, when what I really needed was internal discipline.

The Psychology of Motivation

Motivation is largely based on reward anticipation.We act because we expect a payoff — a dopamine hit, a goal unlocked, praise received, success achieved.

But in the real world — especially in business and leadership — the payoff is often delayed.

• Founders can go years without seeing the fruits of their work.

• Career transitions can take longer than expected.

• Internal growth is rarely linear.

So what happens when the dopamine doesn’t arrive on time?

Enter: Discipline

Discipline doesn’t wait for results.It doesn’t rely on perfect conditions.It shows up — regardless.

What if you hit a personal wall? What if you feel stuck, even though you are motivated?

What if you think you're looking for the next coach, the next mentor, the next tool that would unlock your growth?

You're chasing change externally, when what you really needed was internal discipline.

Building An “Executive Routine”

That mental shift sparks a practical reset. There is a need to build what I now call an Executive Routine — a system designed not around motivation, but intention and consistency.

Here’s what it looks like:

⏰ Wake up early — not to hustle, but to create space before the world begins.

🚫 No snooze. No drama. Mornings are for clarity and growth.

📚 Skill building — especially in areas that once intimidated you.

🔎 Mindset check-ins — reflecting on the internal narratives that hold you back.

🎯 Ownership — of your time, your learning, and the next version of you.

This routine isn’t about being perfect.It’s about showing up — especially when you don’t feel like it.

Motivation vs. Discipline

Motivation fades when results stall. Discipline sticks — and helps you keep going.

And here's the part that will change how you see yourself:

Discipline is the highest form of self-love.

Because it means you value your future self enough to show up for them today.Even when the rewards are invisible.Even when no one’s watching.

Final Thought

If you’re waiting for motivation to strike — to feel inspired, clear, or ready — pause and ask yourself: What would it look like to choose discipline instead?

For me, that answer led to a more grounded, intentional, and empowered version of myself. Maybe it can do the same for you.