The Myth of Staying “Motivated”
Hey, team, happy Sunday!
Motivation is a spark. Discipline is the fire that keeps you going.
Table of Contents
⚾ For Athletes: Stop Waiting to Feel Motivated
3 Things to Understand
Motivation is unreliable. You won’t always “feel it.” That’s normal.
Build systems, not moods. A routine gets you moving even on low-energy days.
Motion creates emotion. Start with action — motivation often follows.
2 Quotes to Remember
“Don’t rely on hype. Rely on habits.”
Jocko Willink: “Discipline equals freedom.”
1 Question to Reflect On
If motivation didn’t show up tomorrow… would your habits still move you forward?
👨👩👧 For Parents: Teach Consistency Over Hype
3 Supportive Shifts to Make
Celebrate effort more than energy. Ask: “What did you follow through on today?”
Help your athlete build a routine — not a highlight reel.
Reinforce grit when motivation fades. Say things like, “You showed up anyway — that’s what builds champions.”
2 Quotes to Anchor You
“Your athlete doesn’t need to be motivated. They need to be consistent.”
“Motivation may start the journey, but habits get them to the finish line.”
1 Question to Reflect On
Are you praising their discipline — or just their drive?
🧢 For Coaches: Build a Culture of Daily Work
3 Strategies to Shift the Mindset
Make “boring” reps meaningful. Show how the basics win games.
Start practice with non-negotiables. The habit of showing up hard matters more than hype.
Share stories of grinders, not just stars. Highlight the ones who did the work long after the excitement faded.
2 Quotes to Coach By
“The best don’t feel like it every day — they show up anyway.”
“Motivation is loud. Mastery is quiet.”
1 Question to Reflect On
What message does your program send when the energy is low?
Motivation is overrated.
Discipline wins.
Habits stick.
And the great ones?
They keep going — especially when they don’t feel like it.
Keep moving forward,
David Lovell
Founder of the F.O.C.U.S. System | Mental Performance Coach
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