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Jul 22
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What is motivation with Ryan Avery?

What is Motivation? Accumulated vs Cultivated

By Motivation No Comments

Motivation: Cultivated, Not Accumulated

In the pursuit of our goals, motivation can often feel like a fickle friend. Some days, it propels us forward effortlessly; other days, it seems elusive, leaving us grasping for ways to reignite our drive. What if we reconsidered motivation not as something to be accumulated, but as something to be cultivated—looking at it like a process rather than a possession?

What is Motivation?

Motivation is more than mere enthusiasm or willpower. It’s this complex interplay of factors that propel us towards our goals. Psychologically, it involves both intrinsic (internal desires and values) and extrinsic (external rewards or pressures) components. Understanding this duality can help us harness motivation more effectively. Motivation for me is understanding the root words and definition as mot– stems from the latin prefix mot, which means to move) and –ation is the suffix in latin which means to take action. So, by definition it means moving someone to action, it does not mean getting someone to pay attention!

So how do we do a better job of cultivating motivation in our daily lives?

Cultivating Motivation

1. Set Clear Goals:

Define objectives clearly. Ambiguous goals can lead to confusion and a lack of direction, dampening motivation. Break down big goals into smaller, manageable tasks to maintain a sense of progress. Remember the acronym SMART when setting goals!

2. Find Your Why:

Dig deep into the reasons behind our goals. Connecting emotionally with our objectives enhances intrinsic motivation. Ask yourself why achieving this matters to us—it’s often the emotional connection that fuels sustained effort. Have you read Simon Sinek’s Start with WHY?

3. Create a Positive Environment:

Surround ourselves with supportive people and environments that foster positivity and growth. Positive reinforcement and encouragement can significantly boost motivation. I have been very lucky to be around people in my life who support me and I love! Who is your biggest supporter?

4. Celebrate Small Wins:

Acknowledge and celebrate each step forward, no matter how small. This reinforces the sense of progress and achievement, triggering positive cycles of motivation. Sometimes I even celebrate the failures as it reminded me I am DOING something about my dreams, not simply wanting to do something! When is the last time you celebrated something?

5. Stay Flexible and Adapt:

Life is unpredictable, and setbacks are inevitable. Maintain flexibility in your approach and be willing to adapt goals or strategies as needed. Resilience is key to sustaining long-term motivation. These last two years have been beyond tough with losing my house to a fire, living in seven different places with my kids and trying to find stability for them and me, while also going through COVID and so much more! However, one thing I like to think about is not looking at pivoting rather, evolving!

6. Develop Habits and Rituals:

Establishing routines and rituals can create senses of stability and discipline. Consistent habits reduce reliance on fleeting bursts of motivation, making progress more sustainable over time. This is the hardest one for me, anyone else?

7. Seek Inspiration:

be surrounded with sources of inspiration—whether it’s reading success stories, listening to motivational speakers, or engaging with communities pursuing similar goals. Inspiration can reignite passion during challenging times. Where do you seek inspiration?

8. Practice Self-Compassion:

Be kind to ourselves during moments of low motivation. Self-criticism and guilt only exacerbate feelings of demotivation. Accept that motivation fluctuates and focus on nurturing yourself through those periods.

Motivation as a Process

By viewing motivation as a cultivated process rather than a finite resource, we empower ourselves to take proactive steps towards maintaining and enhancing it. It’s about continuous effort and adjustment rather than waiting for motivation to strike.

Remember, motivation isn’t a one-time acquisition but a journey of self-discovery and perseverance. By understanding what drives us, creating conducive environments, and adopting resilient mindsets, we can cultivate sustainable motivation. Embrace the process, celebrate progress, and remember—motivation thrives when nurtured consistently. So, let’s embark on this journey of cultivation, fueling our aspirations with determination and purpose.

Jul 17
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Ryan Avery being open vs being inviting

Being Open VS Being Inviting

By Communication, Leadership, Motivation No Comments

In our journey towards personal growth and fulfillment, there are two concepts I see often people (myself included) getting wrong or not paying attention too that that is the difference between being open versus being inviting.  Understanding the small nuances between these two concepts can significantly impact how we navigate our relationships, opportunities, and overall well-being.

Openness…

Being open encompasses a broad spectrum of attitudes and behaviors. It involves receptivity to new ideas, perspectives, and experiences. When we are open, we embrace diversity, novelty, and change. It’s about breaking free from rigid mindsets and allowing ourselves to explore the unfamiliar with curiosity and without prejudice.

Openness extends beyond what some people might call tolerance; it’s about genuine acceptance and appreciation for the richness that different people, cultures, and ideas bring into our lives. It encourages us to challenge our assumptions, broaden our horizons, and evolve personally and intellectually.

Inviting…

On the other hand, inviting implies proactive engagement and deliberate choice. To invite means to actively seek out and welcome specific experiences, relationships, or opportunities into our lives. It’s about setting intentions and taking actionable steps to manifest our desires. There are different outcomes that happen in being open to feedback vs inviting feedback. There are different results for us when we are open to love and inviting love. There are different courses we can take when we are open to change versus inviting it.

Inviting involves clarity of purpose and the courage to pursue what resonates with our values and aspirations. It’s this proactive stance that empowers us to shape our reality rather than passively accepting what comes our way. By inviting, we align our actions with our goals and create pathways for meaningful connections and growth.

Why Invitation Matters

While openness fosters more of this broad-minded approach to life, invitation adds intentionality and direction. Together, they form some powerful synergy that enhances our personal development and overall satisfaction:

  1. Alignment with Goals: Inviting aligns our actions with our desires and goals, ensuring that we actively pursue what we truly want in life.
  2. Empowerment: It empowers us to take charge of our experiences and relationships, rather than feeling passive or reactive.
  3. Connection and Fulfillment: By inviting what we genuinely want into our lives, we cultivate deeper connections and experiences that resonate with our authentic selves.
  4. Growth and Adaptability: Openness combined with invitation promotes continuous learning, adaptation, and resilience in the face of challenges.

Staying inviting requires cultivating the mindset of abundance rather than scarcity. It involves letting go of fear or hesitation and trusting that there is enough space, opportunity, and love for what we desire. When we remain inviting, we signal to the universe and to ourselves that we are ready and deserving of positive experiences and relationships.

Ultimately for me, embracing both openness and invitation enriches our lives in profound ways. It encourages us to explore the world with curiosity, engage purposefully with others, and manifest our dreams into reality. So, let’s continue to nurture these qualities within ourselves and welcome the beauty of life’s possibilities with open arms and continue to be open while also being more inviting.

What is ONE invitation we can make this week that will bring more good things into our life? 

Jul 08
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Ryan Avery - Shifting Mindsets: From "Getting through" to "Getting to"

Shifting Mindsets: From “Getting through” to “Getting to”

By Motivation, Uncategorized No Comments

Shifting Mindsets: From “Getting through” to “Getting to”

My wife came up with a really great comparison the other day. In the ebb and flow of daily life, our mindset plays such a pivotal role in shaping our experiences. Consider this: how often do we approach tasks, obligations, or even opportunities with a sense of having to get through it so we can move on to the next rather than getting to do it without thinking of what is next? The distinction between “getting through” something and “getting to” do something might seem subtle, yet it profoundly impacts our outlook and, consequently, our well-being.

The “Getting Through” Mindset

When we approach life with a “Getting Through” mindset, our focus tends to center on obligation and necessity, while also taking us out of the present moment. It is the mindset that creates burdens to be endured rather than experiences to be appreciated. This mindset often leads to feelings of resentment, stress, and sometimes even burnout. Whether it’s work assignments, household chores, or personal commitments, viewing them through the lens of obligation or simply, “let me get through this” can drain our mental and emotional resources.

In the “Getting through” mindset, there’s a tendency to operate on autopilot, simply going through the motions without fully engaging or finding meaning in what we’re doing. This mindset can foster a sense of disconnection from our own experiences, leading to a less fulfilling and more anxious existence.

The “Getting To” Mindset

On the other hand, adopting the “getting to” mindset transforms how we perceive and approach tasks. It’s about shifting from obligation to opportunity, from duty to privilege. When we see things as something we “get to” do, there’s a shift in perspective—the recognition of the inherent value or benefit in what we’re undertaking.

Imagine reframing our daily routine: instead of saying “I have to go to work,” we say “I get to go to work,” acknowledging the opportunity to contribute, learn, and grow. This mindset encourages gratitude and mindfulness, prompting us to be more present in our experiences and to find joy in the seemingly mundane aspects of life. And yes, even on those stressful days this can help us out the most.

Staying Present and Planning for the Future

While embracing the “getting to” mindset enhances our present experiences, it doesn’t negate the importance of planning for the future. In fact, it complements it. Being present involves fully engaging with our current tasks and circumstances, appreciating them for what they are. This mindfulness not only improves our immediate well-being but also allows us to make more thoughtful decisions about our future.

Simultaneously, planning for the future is crucial for setting goals, cultivating aspirations, and creating our sense of direction in life. It involves envisioning where we want to be and taking intentional steps to get there. This balanced approach involves integrating present mindfulness with future-oriented planning, ensuring that we live with purpose and intentionality. We like to say in our family, “enjoy today and plan for tomorrow!”

Why It Matters

The shift from “getting through” to “getting to” isn’t simply about positivity—it’s about cultivating the mindset that promotes resilience, gratitude, and fulfillment. By embracing the mindset of opportunity rather than obligation, we empower ourselves to approach challenges with the more positive outlook and to extract meaning from even the most routine aspects of life.

For me, even in the last few days of practicing this, this mindset creates deeper connection with my own experiences (even the simplest ones) and encourages me to be more empathetic towards others. It has the opportunity to promote culture of appreciation and growth, both individually and collectively.

I fully believe the words we use (mindset) shape our reality. Choosing to see life through the lens of “getting to” rather than “getting through” can significantly enhance our well-being and satisfaction. By staying present in our experiences and simultaneously planning for the future, we strike the balance that allows us to live purposefully and joyfully. So, let’s embrace the opportunity in every task and endeavor—we “get to” shape our lives, one mindful moment at a time.

Jul 02
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Spending Time vs. Investing Time: Maximizing Our Productivity and Well-being

By Motivation No Comments

Spending Time vs. Investing Time: Maximizing Our Productivity and Well-being

I have been talking to my clients lately a lot about time management and one asked if I could write an article explaining the difference between spending time vs investing time. Time is the finite resource that we all possess equally, yet how we use it can drastically impact our lives. The choice between spending time and investing time can determine our productivity, personal growth, and overall satisfaction. In this article, I share and will explore the differences, pros, and cons of each approach, and provide practical strategies to enhance our time management skills.

Spending Time: Immediate Gratification or Waste?

Definition and Characteristics: Spending time refers to using time in activities that provide immediate gratification or fulfillment of basic needs without considering long-term benefits. This can include leisure activities, entertainment, and mundane tasks.

Pros:

  • Relaxation and enjoyment: Spending time on leisure activities can reduce stress and improve mental well-being.
  • Instant gratification: Immediate rewards can boost mood and motivation in the short term.

Cons:

  • Lack of long-term benefits: Activities may not contribute to personal or professional growth.
  • Potential for procrastination: Overindulgence in leisure activities can lead to neglect of important tasks and we can also spend too much time doing something. Remember things in moderation are okay, however are we being excessive with how we spend our time? For example, watching a Netflix series is great, are we watching an episode a night or are we binge watching the entire series before we go to bed?

Strategies for Effective Time Spending:

  1. Set boundaries: Allocate specific times for leisure and stick to them to prevent overindulgence.
  2. Prioritize tasks: Complete necessary tasks before engaging in leisure activities to reduce guilt and improve focus.
  3. Mindfulness: Practice being fully present during leisure time to enhance enjoyment and relaxation. Brené Brown does a great job talking about numbing vs nourishing in her book Daring Greatly.

Investing Time: Building Future Success and Growth

Definition and Characteristics: Investing time involves allocating time towards activities that contribute to long-term goals, personal development, and future success. This includes learning new skills, building relationships, and working towards career advancements.

Pros:

  • Personal growth: Continuous learning and skill development enhance capabilities and confidence.
  • Career advancement: Strategic investment of time can lead to promotions, new opportunities, and higher earnings.
  • Long-term fulfillment: Achieving goals and milestones provides lasting satisfaction and purpose.

Cons:

  • Initial effort and patience: Results from investing time may take longer to materialize compared to immediate gratification.
  • Balancing priorities: Focusing too much on long-term goals can neglect present needs and relationships if not managed effectively.

Strategies for Effective Time Investment:

  1. Set SMART goals (Doran, 1981): Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals provide clarity and motivation. I am a big fan of SMART goals.
  2. Create a schedule: Allocate dedicated time blocks for activities that contribute to long-term objectives. I schedule this time in my calendar so I can’t have a meeting and I prioritize investing time in my weekly schedule.
  3. Continuous learning: Regularly invest time in acquiring new knowledge and skills through courses, workshops, or reading. I provide some resources at the end of this article.

Finding Balance and Enhancing Time Management

Achieving the balance between spending and investing time is crucial for maximizing productivity and overall well-being. Here are additional strategies to help us manage our time effectively:

  • Prioritization: Use techniques like Eisenhower Matrix to distinguish urgent and important tasks.
  • Time blocking: Allocate specific time slots for different activities to maintain focus and productivity.
  • Technology tools: Utilize apps like Todoist, Trello, or Google Calendar to organize tasks and schedules effectively.
  • Delegate and outsource: Identify tasks that can be delegated or outsourced to free up time for high-priority activities.
  • Reflect and adjust: Regularly review our time management strategies and adjust them based on effectiveness and changing priorities.

Resources for Further Reading

For those looking to delve deeper into time management and productivity improvement, consider these recommended resources:

By consciously choosing how we spend and invest our time, we can enhance our productivity, achieve personal growth, and lead the fulfilling life we want. Remember, effective time management is not simply about doing more in less time it is about aligning our actions with our long-term aspirations and values while being ourselves, having fun and being THE!

Jun 18
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Ryan Avery Keynoting at MDRT and sharing how not to take things personally

How to Not Take Things Personally

By Leadership, Motivation No Comments
Ryan Avery Keynoting at MDRT and sharing how not to take things personally

How to Not Take Things Personally

with Ryan Avery

This week I am in Vegas and have the opportunity to learn something I have been struggling with for a while, how not to take things personally! In our daily interactions, whether at work, with friends, or within our families, it’s common to encounter situations that can easily be taken personally. Someone’s offhand comment or a colleague’s critique might trigger feelings of defensiveness or hurt. Learning not to take things personally is not simply about building thicker skin; it’s one skill that can lead to better relationships and improved mental well-being. Here are some practical strategies to help us master this valuable art of not taking things personally…

1. Understand the Principle: We Are Not Responsible for Other People’s Actions or Reactions

One of the fundamental keys to not taking things personally is recognizing that each person is responsible for their own words, actions, and emotions. As all of us have autonomy over our thoughts and behaviors, others have the same autonomy. When someone reacts negatively or says something hurtful, it often reflects their own perspective, experiences, and state of mind at that moment. It’s not a reflection of our worth or value as a person.

2. Practice Empathy and Perspective-Taking

Empathy involves putting yourself in the other person’s shoes and understanding where they might be coming from. Consider factors such as their background, current stressors, or even their own insecurities that might be influencing their behavior. By adopting a broader perspective, we can often see that their actions or words are more about them than about us.

3. Separate Facts from Interpretations

When something happens that feels personal, take a step back and objectively analyze the situation. Identify the facts—what actually occurred—and distinguish them from our interpretations or assumptions about the other person’s intentions. Often, misunderstandings arise from jumping to conclusions or assuming the worst about someone’s motives.

4. Cultivate Self-Awareness and Self-Confidence

Build our own strong sense of self-awareness and self-confidence so that external criticisms or negative remarks don’t shake our core identity (this one is the hardest for me and has been something I have been working on for a while). Know our strengths, values, and limitations. When we are secure in who you are, we are less likely to feel threatened by others’ opinions or behaviors.

5. Practice Mindfulness and Emotional Regulation

Mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, can help us stay present and calm in the face of challenging situations. By practicing emotional regulation, we can respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively when confronted with something that feels personal.

6. Communicate Effectively

Open and honest communication is essential for avoiding misunderstandings and resolving conflicts. If something bothers us, let’s express our feelings calmly and assertively, focusing on the impact of the behavior rather than assuming someone has some bad intent.

Mastering the art of not taking things personally requires patience, self-awareness, and a willingness to see situations from different perspectives. Remember, we are all navigating our own complex inner worlds, and much of what happens around us is not a direct reflection of who we are. By implementing these strategies, we can cultivate healthier relationships, reduce stress, and maintain our own stronger sense of self in various social and professional settings. Ultimately, it’s about empowering ourself to choose how we respond to the world around us, rather than letting external factors define your inner peace.

Dec 13
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Reach with Ryan Avery

What is Your Word of The… QUARTER?

By Communication, Family & Personal Life, Motivation No Comments

For the past 5+ years, I have chosen a word for the year that helps guide my decisions and keeps me on track for my goals.

This year was the first year in which I felt like I wanted more than one word as 2020 has been… well a year!

So with that, I am challenging myself (and us) to look at the word for the next QUARTER instead of the entire year. What word do you want to focus on for Q1 of 2021 that will keep you motived, get you going and help you reach your goals?

My word for Q1 2021 will be:  REACH!

To me, this word means many things:
I want to reach new heights.
I want to reach out.
I want to reach for things I usually wouldn’t try.
I want to reach new levels of speaking.

My word is going to be REACH. What is your word going to be?

Dec 06
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Ryan Avery 2020 Photo Challenge

The 2020 Photo Challenge

By Communication, Family & Personal Life, Motivation No Comments

Every year my family and I select the number of photos that correlate with the last two numbers of the year. This year we will select 20 (for 2020). Last year we selected 19 (for 2019) and so on.

We select the photos from our cameras that best represent the year for us and we share them with each other. This is a very fun and eye-opening experience to see what your year was all about and hear from your family about how they saw the same year.

My challenge to you starting this week is to select the 20 photos that best represent your 2020 and share them with your family and friends.

Ready… set… go!

Nov 29
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Go From Could To Can With Ryan Avery

Go From Could to Can

By Communication, Leadership, Motivation No Comments

Many of us are starting to look at setting our goals for 2021.

When doing so, here is one small difference I found that makes all the difference in motivating me to want to follow up and follow through with goals I have been contemplating.

Try it out this week with any decision you have and see how it changes our ability to act on our ideas. Here is the video…

Nov 22
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What Are You Not Thankful For Ryan Avery

What Are You NOT Thankful For?

By Communication, Family & Personal Life, Leadership, Motivation No Comments

Every year in America, millions of families sit down together to talk about and share what they are thankful for. However, one thing we don’t talk about is… what are we NOT thankful for?

In this week’s notes I challenge us to think about what we are NOT thankful for and why. Here is the video:

What are you not thankful for and what can you do about it or how can you change your perspective around the thing you are not thankful for?

Nov 15
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Entertain vs Exercise with Ryan-Avery

The “IDEA” of Entertain vs Exercise

By Family & Personal Life, Leadership, Motivation No Comments

In this week’s video, I share with you the difference between the definition of entertain vs exercise when it comes to our ideas and why it matters to us as being THE leader! Here is the video:

What can we do this week to exercise on one of our ideas that we have been entertaining for too long?

Keep being THE!

Nov 08
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Ryan Avery on Leadership

The AAA of Leadership: Attention. Attitude. Approach.

By Communication, Leadership, Motivation No Comments

Taking a look at all that is going on right now, there are three “A” words that come to mind for how we can get better results and be THE leader. Check out the 4-minute video this week (with a cameo from my son)!

What can we all do this week to pay attention to something outside of what we usually do, change our attitude to improve our character and look at our approach to better our results?

 

 

 

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