Stop Waiting to "Feel Like It": Guy Waltman's Kick-Ass Guide to Discipline & Success (Episode 90)
Listen or Read: The Choice is Yours
The Fascinating Psychology of Motivation: Lessons from Life Coach Guy Waltman
In a world saturated with productivity advice and self-improvement strategies, the true mechanics of motivation often remain misunderstood. The recent MindShift Power Podcast episode featuring life coach Guy Waltman unveils profound insights into what actually drives human motivation and challenges conventional wisdom about how we approach our goals.
The Windmill of Motivation
Waltman introduces us to his original concept called "The Windmill of Motivation" - a framework suggesting that anytime we lack motivation, it stems from one of five specific reasons. Like actual windmills that generate energy rather than simply having it, Waltman explains that humans don't inherently possess motivation; we generate it through specific psychological mechanisms. This paradigm shift alone forces us to reconsider how we conceptualize our relationship with motivation and productivity.
Action Before Motivation
Perhaps the most revolutionary insight from the conversation centers on the commonly held belief that we must "feel motivated" before taking action. Waltman categorically dismantles this notion, revealing it as perhaps "the greatest psychological plague of the planet." The true relationship between motivation and action operates in reverse: motivation frequently materializes only after we've begun taking action, not before. This illuminating perspective helps explain why waiting for inspiration often results in prolonged inaction and stagnation.
Cognitive Override
Waltman illustrates this principle through relatable everyday examples - from tackling dirty dishes to hitting the gym. He introduces the concept of "cognitive override," the psychological mechanism that allows us to initiate action despite not feeling motivated. This parallel's host Fatima Bey's observation that forgiveness functions similarly: it's a choice first, with feelings following the decision. Together, they highlight how this principle applies across numerous domains of human experience.
The Power of Intangibles
The conversation extends beyond theoretical frameworks to address how discipline and "intangibles" contribute to success. While tangible skills might get attention, Waltman emphasizes that qualities like emotional intelligence, kindness, accountability, and loyalty often determine long-term success. These character attributes, though less visible than technical abilities, frequently separate those who merely show promise from those who fulfill their potential.
Social Media Reality Check
For younger listeners, Waltman offers particularly poignant advice about social media's distorting influence. He emphasizes that the curated perfection displayed online represents a manufactured highlight reel rather than authentic lived experience. This comparison trap can erode self-confidence and create unrealistic expectations. His recommendation? Either disconnect entirely or develop a healthier perspective for interpreting what we see online, understanding that "they aren't that happy, they aren't that successful" - despite appearances.
Conclusion
The episode provides profound insights into the psychology of motivation while offering practical strategies for overcoming inaction. By reframing our understanding of how motivation operates and embracing the discipline of starting despite our feelings, we unlock new possibilities for personal growth and achievement. As Waltman summarizes, "You'll never make the climb as high as you yearn to if you only do things when you feel like doing it." This transformative insight might just be the perspective shift many need to finally break through their motivational barriers.
To learn more about Guy Waltman, please click below.
