2 replies to this topic

[Scottie]

This entertaining look at Motivational Conferences and why we choose the work and lives that we do is worth the read. It's long, it's kind of all over the place, but there are lots of points in it that make you think. I've just discovered Beth Newman, but I like her writing a lot, even before I discovered she shares my views on John Gray.

Some interesting points:

And there's nothing like confidence to anchor that image of authority. "[S]tudies show that decisive, swift talkers are actually no more sure of their facts than are their more hesitant counterparts," Levine writes. "But more important, they create the impression of confidence and, as a result, are perceived to be more expert, intelligent, and knowledgeable." The use of statistics, he adds, "even when they're meaningless, can signal expertise."

For someone to experience intrinsic motivation, four conditions have to be met, according to John Tauer, an assistant professor of psychology at the University of St. Thomas. The first is that they must enjoy some degree of competence: "Rarely do you find anyone who says, 'I love this activity and I'm terrible at it,'" he says.

Next is autonomy: An individual needs to feel that they have some control over what they're doing. Then there's a sense of relatedness, of being part of something bigger than oneself. And finally there's the sense that what you do is valued, that it's important, that there is meaning in it.

There's a lot to consider in this article, and not a lot of conclusions. The only thing we know is that the author doesn't see much value in motivational conferences and speakers. But it's interesting to follow along as she explores why we need motivating and why these speakers have such a following.

It also backs up my theory that the only thing you need to be considered an "expert" these days is to be persistent and publish a lot. Even if half the people see through the , the other half will think you must be "someone" because they can't understand what you are saying OR they've never bothered to read what you write but they see your name a lot...

[sweepthelegnate]

It also backs up my theory that the only thing you need to be considered an "expert" these days is to be persistent and publish a lot. Even if half the people see through the user posted image, the other half will think you must be "someone" because they can't understand what you are saying OR they've never bothered to read what you write but they see your name a lot...

that's so true...

[GaryBradshaw]

"Next is autonomy: An individual needs to feel that they have some control over what they're doing. Then there's a sense of relatedness, of being part of something bigger than oneself. And finally there's the sense that what you do is valued, that it's important, that there is meaning in it. "

This is exactly what keeps me going with Pilot Journey. The people that learn to fly enjoy a new perspective on life - it's life changing as I say. This was true in my case as well. The flight schools that I work with are all barely making money, it is a business of passion in many cases/

Thanks for the post