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By Dr. Melanie Ross Mills | Contributor
**Average Income of Motivational Speakers**
Did you know that the average income for a motivational or inspirational speaker can exceed six figures? There’s a reason why companies, organizations, and event planners invest heavily in speakers whose role is to “motivate and inspire” audiences.
**The Power of Personal Stories**
Personal narratives from those who have fought through hardships, initiated change, and realized their dreams keep us motivated. Messages of hope and recovery remind us that we can continue after experiencing loss, pain, and disappointment. We are inherently designed to be renewed, transformed, and uplifted, and we thrive on the notion that anything is achievable. SIGN ME UP!
**The Role of Media in Motivation**
From podcasts and events to YouTube videos and social media, we’re accustomed to being served information as listeners in the audience. We enjoy being entertained as impactful messages unfold, feeling invigorated after consuming our daily encouragement. These resources are excellent for growth and learning, which I deeply appreciate (especially as a motivational speaker with my own podcast—Life Bonds podcast—shameless plug). However, amid this constant consumption, we sometimes overlook the chance to discover ourselves in our unique ways.
**The Dangers of Mimicking Others**
Have you ever seen a close friend imitating a teacher, guru, or speaker without truly questioning their own thoughts or beliefs? It’s as if they become a “mini-version” of someone else rather than embracing their authentic self. They miss the opportunity to understand who they genuinely are because they are too focused on studying others. While they may appear knowledgeable, they may not experience personal growth. This often occurs because long-term transformation requires consistent practices, studying reliable content, self-reflection, and a sustained commitment to understanding one’s thoughts, identity, and direction.
**A Personal Challenge**
Does this resonate with you? If so, and you’re ready to delve deeper into self-discovery and transformative thinking, here are seven questions to contemplate each day.
At the end of each day for a week, start with question one and focus on just one question a day using the following four concepts: Experience, Reflect, Act, and Understand. Describe your EXPERIENCE. Take time to REFLECT. Consider how you felt, how you appeared, how you communicated, and what ACTION you took. Strive to UNDERSTAND why you answered as you did.
Elaborate in detail when responding to each question, including comments, feelings, examples, and thoughts. There’s no need to wait for your podcasts to play, your guru’s departure, or the completion of your YouTube viewing. Begin today!
**1** What three choices have I made that have brought me closer to my goals, dreams, hopes, and/or destiny (for example: remaining committed to my diet and exercise)?
**2** Are there areas in my life where I’ve compromised my mind, will, emotions, heart, or spiritual commitment (for example: staying in a toxic relationship that is unlikely to change)?
**3** Has a specific attitude supported or hindered my mood, reactions, or decisions (for example: feelings of entitlement, gratitude, excitement, or fear)?
**4** Do I take responsibility to the best of my ability, or do I make excuses for my mistakes and failures (for example: apologizing for snapping at a co-worker)?
**5** Do I apply my strengths in ways that are appropriate and life-affirming, fulfilling me personally while also serving the greater good?
**6** What do I believe to be true about myself? Identify three truths (for example: I believe I am deserving of love).
**7** What choices can I make tomorrow that will improve my answers to the previous six questions for my own growth and the benefit of those around me by the end of the day?
Editor’s Note: Dr. Melanie Ross Mills is a Life Strategist and Relationship Expert, as well as a licensed therapist. Her motivational work includes the Life Bonds podcast and Life Bonds books. For more information, you can reach Dr. Mills at www.melanierossmills.com.
