Constructively Discontent

How motivated are you?

Motivation is what gets you started. Commitment is what keeps you going - Jim Rohn

I was introduced to this quote by Peter Thomson. It’s a wonderfully simple way of describing the state you have to be in to get things done. Have you ever been in a position where you feel unhappy, uncomfortable or discontented with your lot? You may have even found yourself grumbling to yourself or anyone that will give you a bit of airtime. Perhaps you’ve started to bore them with your moaning? You may even be boring yourself. This discomfort is a good thing, providing you recognise it and do something about it, other than whining.

People tend to sit somewhere on a motivational continuum, with pain at one end and pleasure at the other. Which is it for you? The reality is, most people are only motivated to commit to take action to avoid pain, rather than pursue pleasure. Often, you’ll need a stick to get you going and a carrot to keep you moving.


There’s a difference between interest and commitment. When you’re interested in doing something, you do it only when it’s convenient. When you’re committed to something, you accept no excuses, only results. - Kenneth Blanchard


So, here’s an idea, rather than lamenting your situation and flagellating yourself for your lack of progress, why not use the feeling to your best advantage? Here’s how you can apply being constructively discontent to making things happen for you.

• Recognise the feeling – acknowledge you’re unhappy with your current situation.

• Commit - decide what you’re going to do about it. Be aware and expect to feel scared once you’ve fully committed. Welcome this feeling, it’s there to get you fully prepared and ready.

• Write it down – make a note of the cause of your discontent and what you want instead. Identify your goal and make compelling.

• Take action – identify the steps you will take to get what you want.

If you need help to capitalise on that feeling of constructive discontentment, visit https://bit.ly/meeting-JackyLeonard to shedule a call. I’ll challenge and support you to get moving and keep going.