The Myth of Motivation: Why You Don’t Need to Feel Ready

We’ve all done it. We wait for the perfect moment to start.
The right mood. The quiet house. The spark of inspiration that makes us feel ready.

But here’s the uncomfortable truth: if you’re waiting for motivation, you might be waiting forever.

The biggest myth about creativity, whether you’re wood burning, writing, or dreaming up a new life, is that you need to feel motivated to begin.

You don’t. And here’s why.

Motivation Isn’t What You Think It Is

Most of us believe motivation comes first.
We imagine this magical sequence:

1. Feel inspired
2. Take action
3. Create something great

But real life doesn’t work that way.

Motivation doesn’t cause action; action creates motivation.

The truth is, you won’t always feel ready. You might not even feel like doing it at all. But once you start, even with the smallest step, your brain catches up. You shift from thinking about creating to being a creator.

What Works Instead

If waiting for motivation keeps you stuck, here’s what actually works:

1. Lower the Bar

Stop aiming for the perfect session. Tell yourself: “I’m just going to burn one line. Sketch one circle. Write one messy sentence.”

Once you begin, chances are you’ll keep going.

2. Create a Ritual

Light a candle, sharpen your pencils, pour tea — whatever signals to your body: this is creative time. Routines trick your brain into showing up.

3. Focus on Momentum, Not Masterpieces

Forget about finishing something big. Your only job is to show up. Momentum grows when you keep showing up, not when you wait for inspiration to hit.

Why This Matters

The longer you wait to “feel ready,” the more your creative voice goes quiet.
And that voice? It doesn’t need perfection. It just needs permission.

When you stop waiting for motivation, you stop letting fear run the show.
And that’s when your real creative fire takes over.

Your Challenge This Week

You can pick one tiny creative action, and do it before you feel ready.

Then ask yourself:
“What else can I create if I don’t wait for motivation?”

I’d love to hear from you — comment below or message me on Instagram @petra_monaco.

Want More Creative Courage?

If you’re ready to build a creative practice that sticks — whether it’s through pyrography or simply showing up for yourself — check out these resources:

Join Pyrography Academy – Learn, burn & grow with us
→ Shop hand-burned art & patterns at Smoky Wood Studios

You don’t need motivation. You just need to begin.

Stay curious, stay rooted, and keep creating your own wild path.