In this episode, Bobby explores the myth of external motivation and why self-motivation is an essential pillar of self-leadership. Drawing from personal stories and the core components of self-leadership theory, Bobby challenges the belief that motivational speakers or outside forces can sustain your long-term growth.

Instead, he walks through three key self-leadership strategies—behavioral focus, natural rewards, and constructive thought patterns—and explains how you can apply them to develop a deep, internal drive rooted in your own values and purpose.

What You'll Learn

- Why motivation is an emotion—and why that matters

- The difference between self-motivation and self-determination

- How to stop chasing motivation and start building discipline

- The four tools of behavioral self-motivation:

1. Self-observation

2. Self-goal setting

3. Self-cueing

4. Self-rewarding

- How natural rewards and boredom can reveal whether you're doing Easy Hard or Hard Hard work

- Why your inner voice matters—and how to make it work for you, not against you

- How mental imagery and cognitive reframing can reset your drive and perspective

- A candid look at Bobby’s past mistakes—and what he learned about real, lasting motivation

Try This

- Write a sticky note cue (“Do 10 pushups”) and place it on your mirror.

- Celebrate small wins appropriately—not with cheesecake, but with recognition.

- Visualize a day in your ideal life. What work are you doing? How does it feel?

- If you're stuck, reframe: What are 2 actors (not 100) on your mental stage right now?

“If your motivation is coming from external factors, it’s probably not motivation—it’s a crutch.”

Resources & Links

- Subscribe to the podcast: Apple, Spotify, Amazon

- Read more from Bobby: https://bobbyshelton.substack.com/

- Learn more about Easy Hard vs. Hard Hard: www.battlecatcoaching.com