Have you ever wondered where motivation comes from? As I have been preparing for a bicycle time trial series coming up in a couple of weeks, I've examined how my motivation fluctuates. Some days I have a lot of energy and am easily motivated, an on others I'm filled with the age-old "What am I doing this for?"

I remember as a child hearing my teachers tell my parents, "Keith is a good student when he wants to be." Today as an adult, I'm a good cyclist, and have the potential to be a good racer "when I want to be". So, why the ebb & flow of motivation?

I think many of us struggle with this problem in many aspects of our lives. Calling up the courage to be disciplined enough to: quit smoking, lose weight, exercise more, work hard enough for a promotion, run a 5k or marathon, try skydiving, or simply make good honest choices in life. I wish I had an answer that would eliminate the "struggle" for you; all that I can offer is how I and others temporarily overcome it, push through it and still endeavor to do well.

This is going to sound silly, but one way I conjure up the necessary energy is to make myself an example, being a leader and have to perform because it's expected will make you step up your game. I don't want to be embarrassed, so it's easier to just do my best in front of people. I learned a long time ago that an audience always wants you to succeed, it makes them feel better about themselves. Plus, when I'm done I've once again successfully overcome the negative little voice that says, "What am I doing this for?" The result: I feel better about myself.

When you rise above the problem and place yourself in a position of authority, leadership or command you find a different energy emerges. Here's an example, during the Tour de France each year ace TV commentator Phil Liggett will inevitably mention how the wearing of the yellow jersey of the race leader brings a different energy to that cyclist...they ride harder, perform better and often raise their game to a new level.

A few years ago in the early flat stages of the race a young French cyclist, Thomas Voeckler, picked up enough time in a solo breakaway to take over the yellow jersey for the day. He wasn't particularly polished or pretty to watch because he had a very unique and almost awkward riding style, but that quirk seemed to make him more human. He hadn't worn the jersey before and was so excited. Thomas was so filled with energy that with great courage and effort he managed to keep it for several more days into the tough mountain stages.

The viewing public around the globe fell in love with this young man's positive, never-give-up attitude, each day crossing the finishing line with a big smile, fist pumping in the air as he had managed to keep it once again. He knew he would lose the jersey eventually as his big lead of time was slowly eroded, but he kept pushing, riding above his normal ability, smiling all the way, having a ball and endearing himself to cycling enthusiasts everywhere.

You can do this too. Raise your awareness of your own abilities; you know you can do more or better, and with enthusiasm when you "want to". Find the object of desire within you that elicits a high degree of happiness and passion; focus on it until you succeed and it will make you giggle with joy at the results. Be addicted to happiness in your life and in all things you pursue; the reward will be achievement, happiness and a zest for life you didn't know you had.

In the end, it's one man's opinion, mine.

Keith......

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