Inspiration And Motivation

These two terms are often used interchangeably to describe a positive factor urging us towards a goal. But in reality, they mean entirely different.

All of us seek motivation whenever we are on the verge of going astray from our paths, to return on track. But, inspiration is the factor making us feel the need to choose that path. Not clear? Let's look at both the words etymologically -

The key to the word Motivation is, 'motive', i.e., a reason. Hence, motivation to do something arises from the reason why you need to do it; all of us have experienced that without having a reason or a motive, motivation is hard to come by.

Inspiration, on the other hand, is a whole process. The word “inspiration” comes from the late Latin word “inspirare” which means “inspirit” or “divine guidance” that means to inflame or to blow in to.

When you inspire something, it is as if you are blowing air over a low flame to make it grow.

Hence, you read a book, listen to a person, face a situation, meet someone, hear some quotes and are inspired to follow that path. Therefore, inspiration is more about a person reaching a point of wanting to act, whereas, motivation is more of giving people reasons to act.

When we try to motivate someone, we give him a reason, some positive incentives/ some tactical benefits to make the point made outwards reach that person's heart, making him reflect inwards. Hence, motivation is often temporary. While, inspiration arises from within the inside of you, your soul, i. e., from inwards, propelling you to act outwards. Inspiring someone is stirring his heart in a way that resonates in his actions, his motives, and this effect is inside out. Therefore, inspiration is long-term.

Robb Holman compares the difference between motivation and inspiration to be "that between babysitting and empowerment, incentives or influence, fire-starters and fire extinguishers".

Hence, motivation can be thought of as a driving force towards a goal; it leads to a sense of resistance in leaving that goal. Here, the impulse to take action is deliberate, as motivation is basically imposed on us, by societal norms, peer pressure, obligations, expectations, or even by ourselves, compelling us to achieve our aim.

Whereas, inspiration is the pulling force that the goal has on us; it provides us with a sense of excitement and enthusiasm towards actually living that goal and makes it effortless for us to follow a path to attain that goal. Here, the impulse to take action is spontaneous, as inspiration is basically a natural calling, a propelling agent towards our aim.

Now, this is a whole lot of fundamental difference between the two important terms. Knowing the difference between them certainly improves one's chances to utilize them and succeed. In fact, inspiring others is one of the top three desired qualities in a leader!