The Coffee Factor - Stay Motivated

Posted on 19 Nov 2018
Category: Well-Being, Leadership
Author: Steve Vail


I have a routine that I follow pretty much every morning. As soon as I roll out of bed, I stumble into the kitchen, start some water to boil, grind six teaspoons of medium roast coffee beans, pour the grind into my french press followed by the steaming hot water - wait five minutes and press. Then I settle down with my coffee and begin to work on my next article or latest digital project.

I do enjoy a good cup of coffee. However, that's hardly what this post is about. I am using the word coffee here as an acronym for what I consider to be my most desired approach to any situation. Allow me to explain:

  • Communication: How and what we communicate to others as well as to ourselves can and frequently does make all the difference. So It is crucial that we keep our self-talk as well as all communication positive, hopeful, and encouraging.
  • Optimization: Take an inventory of all resources and be creative as to how to apply those resources to your current situation, plan, or goal.
  • Focus: Make a plan and stick to that plan. Avoid becoming sidetracked or allowing anything or anyone to distract you from accomplishing what you have set out to do.
  • Freedom: Brake loose from the prisons of your own making. Forgive yourself as well as others for past infractions. Holding a grudge not only doesn't contribute toward accomplishment, but it actually becomes a detriment.
  • Encouragement: Speaking an encouraging word goes a long way towards helping you to keep your commitment to self and to others concerning your plans and goals.
  • Enthusiasm: No matter how difficult the task becomes, enthusiastically embrace the process. Enthusiasm is a key factor for staying positive and staying the course - endurance.