Sometimes we do get confused about two very popular words these days: Motivation and Inspiration. They are both key for a successful business and for a successful life. They can work as a compass that continuously shows us our North and keeps us focused on our mission. I believe it is important to be very clear about what they mean and how we can take pro-active steps to make sure we have plenty of both always present in our lives.

Motivation is something outside of ourselves that pushes us to take action. Inspiration is something within ourselves that pulls us to take action. Motivation promises rewards or the avoidance of punishment. Inspiration promises satisfaction and fulfillment. Motivation can be positive or negative. Inspiration is always positive.

Most successful entrepreneurs have a healthy dose of both motivation and inspiration, sometimes this inspiration is described as having a great passion for what they’re doing or pursuing. Interestingly, I mostly see people concentrating on being motivated. They go out of their way to find things that will motivate them to do something else. When people act from being motivated alone, that motivation must be on-going and usually must escalate in intensity for the person to continue to feel motivated to perform because their heart isn’t into what they’re doing.

If your motivation to start a business comes from not wanting to work in an office or punch a clock, you’ll want to delve deeper into what inspiration exists for you to own a business. Remember, inspiration is generated within you. It’s a feeling, an itch, a burning desire to “go do”. I t infuses you with a cozy feeling you’re on the right path or it could show-up as a burning drive. This is what sustain s you through periods of difficulty and supports you in taking necessary actions to get to where you want to go, even when those actions are uncomfortable to you.

Erin Brockovich is an extreme example of being inspired to pursue the clean-up of a local town. If you recall her story, she was both inspired and motivated. The inspiration was that drive to keep fighting the system and big business, and her motivation was that she had three children who could’ve been infected by the contamination. The combination of these two elements kept her going against all odds and numerous setbacks. Do you have t he same level of inspiration and motivation in your own business?

A question I often receive from clients is “How do I know if I’ m inspired?” My response…”If you are asking me then you aren’t.”

Inspiration shows up for different people in different ways. For some it’s a deep sense of knowing that they’re on the right path. For others it’s a fiery drive that nothing could put out. And for still others it’s a feeling o f bliss or joy that accompanies them as they tackle tasks—both easy and difficult. No matter how you experience inspiration, you will definitely know when it’s present for you.

Just because you are inspired, doesn’t mean you won’t have down days, sometimes doubt your purpose, or get off track a little. This is where positive motivators are most effective. Positive motivators are the rewards we set for ourselves once we reach a milestone or goal. Having positive motivators gives us something else to keep our eye on when the goal itself gets blurry. And, once we’ve earned the positive motivator it serves as an anchor for our success.

What positive motivators do you have?

Have an inspiring month!

With energy (and inspiration),