Why are you doing this? This job? This project? This task?

All the productivity tools and organizational systems in the world won't help you if you don't take action! But for most people to take meaningful action, which is different from "busy work" there needs to be some type of significant motivation. The really important step here is to know what that motivation is and to determine if it issufficient and appropriate. Only you can know for sure what works for you, but there are usually patterns of successful and unsuccessful motivators.

Some examples:

I want to lose weight or get fit – this one is almost always on the list

• Successful motivators – have more energy, be healthier, have less pain, and feel more confident
• Unsuccessful motivators – to please your spouse or mate, to be happier (just doesn't work,) to feel superior to others

Ace a project at work

• Successful motivators – demonstrate proficiency in your job, advance your career, self-satisfaction
• Unsuccessful motivators – make other members of the team look bad

Care for and beautify your home

• Successful motivators – have comfortable and beautiful surroundings, take pride and responsibility in ownership, create an inviting atmosphere to entertain and live
• Unsuccessful motivators – to be the envy of your neighbors, to impress friends or business associates, to prove how successful or wealthy you are

It is impossible to discuss all the ways motivation can and is used both in the workplace and at home, but the point is that it must be there  or maximum productivity and satisfaction cannot exist.

Take a look at the different aspects of your life and ask yourself, "What is my motivation?" The answer may surprise you…