Friday, April 25, 2025

We’ve all been there—fired up by a motivational quote or an inspiring podcast, ready to conquer the world... until a few days (or hours) later, the spark fades. Life gets in the way, the enthusiasm wears off, and we’re back to slogging through our routines.

Zig Ziglar, the legendary motivational speaker, addressed this perfectly with a touch of humor and deep wisdom. He said, “People often say that motivation doesn’t last. Neither does bathing—that’s why we recommend it daily.”

Let’s break that down and explore how this simple analogy can transform the way we approach motivation, growth, and consistency.

🧼 Motivation Is Maintenance, Not Magic

Ziglar’s quote reminds us that motivation isn’t a one-time event or a permanent state of being. It’s something we need to actively renew, just like personal hygiene. You wouldn’t skip a shower for a week and expect to feel fresh—so why do we expect one burst of inspiration to carry us through life’s ups and downs?

Instead of seeing motivation as something you “have or don’t,” think of it as something you recharge regularly.

🔄 Why It Fades (and Why That’s Normal)

Life is full of distractions, challenges, and emotional swings. It’s natural for your drive to fluctuate. The key isn’t to fight that reality but to work with it by creating systems and habits that keep your inner fire lit.

This doesn’t mean you need to attend a seminar every week. It means finding small, sustainable ways to reconnect with your purpose and passion daily.

💡 Simple Ways to Stay Inspired Daily

Here are some practical habits that help you keep motivation flowing:

• Start your day with intention. Read an inspirational quote, write in a journal, or listen to a short podcast.
  

• Build a “motivation bank.” Save quotes, songs, and success stories that energize you. Pull from it when you feel low.
  

• Practice gratitude. A quick list of things you're thankful for shifts your mindset and strengthens resilience.
  

• Reflect on your “why.” Revisit your goals and what drives you. Let your vision pull you forward.
  

• Surround yourself with positivity. Whether it’s books, people, or spaces—curate an environment that lifts you.
  

📚 Recommended Resources for Daily Motivation

Here’s a go-to resource list to keep your spirit fueled:

📘 Books

• See You at the Top by Zig Ziglar

• Atomic Habits by James Clear

• The 5 AM Club by Robin Sharma

• Drive by Daniel H. Pink

• The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle

🎧 Podcasts

• The Ziglar Show

• The Mel Robbins Podcast

• Optimal Living Daily

• Motivation Daily by Motiversity

• The Daily Mastery Podcast by Robin Sharma

📺 Videos & YouTube Channels

• Zig Ziglar YouTube Channel

• TEDx Talks on Motivation

• Goalcast

• Evan Carmichael’s “Top 10 Rules for Success”

• Fearless Motivation

📱 Apps

• Shine

• Fabulous

• ThinkUp

• Motivation – Daily Quotes

• Headway

🔁 Your Motivation is Your Responsibility

Ziglar’s message is clear: motivation isn’t something you stumble upon—it’s something you commit to cultivating. Like brushing your teeth or eating nutritious meals, staying motivated is part of self-care.

Instead of waiting for motivation to strike, create it. Build habits around it. And most importantly, understand that it’s okay—and even expected—that it won’t last forever. That’s why you return to it. Daily.

🌅 Final Thought

Motivation doesn’t last... but neither does a shower. That doesn’t make it any less essential.

So go ahead—treat your mind and spirit the way you treat your body. Wash away yesterday’s doubt, refresh yourself today, and step forward renewed and ready.