The difference between motivation and habits is subtle for many, but of great importance and value for us all.

“Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going.” – Jim Rohn

Ddidn’t our parents and grandparents teach us that stealing is bad? Then why do so many continue to steal the work of other people and pass it off as their own?

While most ideas aren’t original any longer and anyone can speak about a particular concept or a topic, it is important to stick to what we know and what we have experienced ourselves. That way, integrity, authority and sincerity shouldn’t come into question, ever.

Why does it matter what people say? Why does it matter so much to so many of us that we will stop pursuing our goals, passions and what makes us happy?

Why do we empower and enable others to have control over how we live our own lives; why is it that we will rather fly under the radar and settle for mediocrity over a few negative comments as you pursue what you are meant to do?

Everything that matters and is truly valuable in life, takes time. There are no shortcuts in relationships, career, business, education, health…there is no shortcut to greatness. Once you understand that, you will spend more time on making progress and a lot less looking around at what others have done or may be doing.

Preparation, experience and confidence…those are some of the things that matter when preparing for your presentation and subsequently, while presenting it. In particular, focus on your slides (if you are using them), make them visual and whatever you do, DON’T READ your slides. Furthermore, engage your audience in a relaxed, casual conversation, invite people to comment and even interrupt as needed, make it natural and easy flowing. As a presenter, you are there to lead the conversation and incentivize open exchange of ideas and experiences, not to monopolize space and time.

Once again…
1. Make your slides visual, less text
2. Don’t read your slides
3. Engage your audience

Are you doing what you are mean to do? Are you sure? How do you know?
Passion is important, but alone, is it enough? When one finds passion and pairs with with quality and adds market demand, then you have something special, something you should go all in on. Then, you may have a purpose.

Talent matters, a lot. When it comes to attracting and retaining top level performers (those who play nice with others), I believe that we could all do more. This pertains to people who are great team players, leaders, collaborators, communicators and have enviable functional skills. While money helps, it is not the primary motivator for all people which is why some of the others things could be considered.

Confirm your facts and don’t spread rumors. This is a solid way to live your life and advance in your career, no matter who you are or what you do. Today, most of us are way to quick to like, share, retweet…a piece of information without asking ourselves whether it is true and where does the source come from. Think for yourself, do your own research (especially on larger things that matter to you and those around you) and be mindful about your actions.

In short, don’t make negative comments or spread rumors about anyone (especially if you haven’t told them what you think, in person) as it depreciates both yours and their credibility.

Keep asking questions as they will enable you to continue learning while contributing to the process at the same time. Don’t be someone who sits in meetings and doesn’t contribute with ideas, thoughts and experiences as that is a sure way to become irrelevant and overlooked when major projects and initiatives come around. As someone who wants to grow, learn and advance, you want to be involved at the highest levels by providing value to all you come in contact with. Asking questions is one of those (very effective) ways.