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Or when you decided to get on a healthier diet? Things always look so easy and flashy at first but after some time you start craving for that bag of chips or a chocolate bar and there are days were you don't feel like posting because you've got other stuff to do or you're feeling a little sick. Make an exception or stick to your plans? When you say that one exception is not really an issue you are totally right, but all of a sudden your routine starts to change, and an exception is no longer that but slowly becoming the new normal. But where did your initial motivation go? Your goal is still there but you just don't feel that inner drive anymore. It faded. And the urge to just sit back and relax is getting strong.
Astronaut relaxing. One eternity later: Still couldn't figure out how to drink with his helmet on. Message: Don't take the easy way! You will run into nothing but problems!;)
What keeps high achievers going is DEDICATION
Once your intrinsic motivation faded you are left with only dedication. Just do what it takes to get there, day in and day out, is what it comes down to after your once so shiny looking path towards your goals eventually loses its glance. You realize how hard it really is, how long it really takes to get where you want to be.
Conclusion
Ask yourself truthfully if your goal is worth the sacrifice it will take to get there. Once that question is out of the way, it is time to just commit yourself to do what it takes and staying dedicated. Ease through the easy times and remind yourself of the reasons for starting in hard times.
IMPORTANT: Don't hesitate to stop doing what you do if you don't think it can get you anywhere even if you first saw the potential.