I have often wondered how some days I can get into a zone where I can write, draw or work with the aforementioned Merriam Webster drive/enthusiasm. I can work almost effortlessly with an ease and joy. On these days, motivation and inspiration go hand in hand. But then there are days when I use a more Oxford Dictionary version of motivation- the  Keep calm and carry on version - I do something to attain the end goal. Completion/ resolution/ end of task ? Want = Effort. Is that still motivation ? Yes but where is the joy ?

Often I am motivated to do something, but inspiration is lacking - I simply want to get it done. On these occasions even when the task is completed I feel disillusioned and unmotivated to do it again. There is no joy on completion. 

For the last few this monthly newsletter has caused me a lot of procrastination - which could easily be translated into lack of motivation. I am motivated to write the newsletter, I like the process but I don't want to complete the task just to complete it. I have no drive as I do not want to simply complete the task - so I just don't follow through. There is a missing link somewhere between 'intent' and 'producing content'. I want motivation and happiness. I want an idea and substance which fulfils me.

Lack of Merriam Webster Motivation can cause procrastination and procrastination can become the thief of productivity. Procrastination can become the thief of joy causing the blurred line between motivation and completion which can spiral into anxiety and even self loathing. 

My intention to complete the newsletter on time is strong but there is a blurred line which sometimes I can't crossover. The linear line which normally would link me between intention and  productivity, the motivation just doesn't develop. I can't make the transition from concept to start, because I anticipate a completion without joy. August marks the second full year of writing a newsletter every month on the Red Cat Yoga website. That's twenty-four newsletters. I have also written 37 articles on my other website Most Privileged Tourist. So I can do it - I have done it. 61 times. Self reflection has allowed me to discover how.    

My intent each month, is to supply well written, interesting content which I can be proud of or at least (to play on words) 'a good content' which I can be 'content (happy)' with. How can I keep up the momentum if I am falling back into procrastination. How can I feel happy with my writing. 

I have noticed that if my mindset is to enjoy the process rather than concentrate on the outcome, motivation is much easier. This mindset allows me to be content with the process. It allows me to enjoy the creativity and fuels my motivation. The blurred line between intention and productivity comes clearly into focus. Expectation disolves into exploration 

Contentment with my content, is a wonderful feeling. Contentment with the process is however an even more lovely and rewarding feeling.