Desire:a sense of longing for a person or object or hoping for an outcome. The philosopher, Thomas Hobbes maintained that human desire is the fundamental motivation of all human action. How badly you desire something will determine how motivated you are to obtain your goal. So, to me, the question is not only what do you desire, but how badly do you want it?

This time of year, aside from the New Year’s resolution rush, fitness facilities across the country will see an increase in memberships because people desire to be healthier, skinnier or more fit. Bathing suit, boat and beach season is in the near future. For many people this is a reason to start a new work out program. But, the desire to be healthier, skinnier and more fit can not be achieved solely by joining a fitness facility or purchasing the latest home gym/workout craze videos. Nutrition plays an important part in achieving your goals. But, desire (the deep down in your gut kind of desire) is the most important factor. Wanting to be skinnier is one thing, but what is the real reason behind your desire to achieve this goal? Are you unhappy with the way you look and/or feel? Are you tired all of the time? Are you unable to do the things you want because of your current level of health? You need to ask yourself what is the true emotion behind what you desire.

No matter what it is, take some time to examine the real reason behind what you desire in your life: job, love, family, wealth, possessions, health, etc. I believe unless you understand and know what the real motivation is behind your desire, you may never achieve your goal. Yes, there are other factors that you can not control that can affect the outcome. However, if you don’t set yourself on the right path with an understanding of and answer to the age old question of “Why?” you may never be able to achieve what you desire.

When you write your “bucket list” of desires for the upcoming months, I urge you to also examine why they are important and write it down. Then, paint a clear picture of what, why and how. What do you desire, why do you desire it and how will you achieve it? Post your list where you will see it all of the time. I have posted mine on my bathroom mirror with a dry erase marker. I see them every morning and every night. It is a constant reminder of what I desire.

So, what do you desire and why?