The Candle and the Spotlight: Illuminating the Two Faces of Motivation

Motivation is the invisible force that drives us forward, shapes our actions, and fills our lives with purpose. But not all motivation burns the same way. Like different sources of light, motivation can come from within—a quietly burning candle—or from without—a dazzling but often fleeting spotlight.

The Candle: A Quiet, Consistent Flame

Internal motivation is like a candle’s flame. It burns steadily on its own, unforced and self-sustained. The candle does not require an audience or applause to glow; it lights the way for the person holding it. Its warmth is personal, nourishing a deep desire to grow, learn, and improve for the simple joy of becoming better.

This candlelight flickers gently but reliably, even in the face of setbacks or darkness. It may start small, but with care—nurtured by curiosity, passion, and self-reflection—its glow intensifies. The candle is never dependent on external forces; its energy is renewable and lasting. Over time, this kind of motivation creates a steady path of progress that feels meaningful and fulfilling.

Importantly, a candle not only burns steadily but also shares its light with those around it. Its gentle glow can inspire warmth and illumination for others nearby, creating a ripple effect of encouragement and positivity. Sharing energy in this way enriches both the giver and the receiver, spreading motivation through connection and genuine influence.

I’ve seen this candlelight in action many times. Think of the athlete who trains relentlessly when nobody else is watching, day after day, quietly working to improve their game. Michael Jordan talked at Kobe Bryant’s funeral about how Kobe would call him constantly, asking questions and learning, just trying to be better. That, to me, is pure candle motivation—driven by internal hunger and respect for the craft. I’ve also always looked at other guitar players not as competitors but as tools I can learn from to make my own playing better. This kind of steady, personal motivation is what truly lasts.

The Spotlight: Powerful but Momentary

In contrast, external motivation is like a spotlight. It shines bright and grabs attention immediately, illuminating achievements and fueled by recognition, rewards, or competition. The spotlight’s power lies in its intensity—it can energize and drive rapid results, especially in moments of challenge or performance.

Yet, the spotlight’s illumination depends entirely on an external source—it cannot burn on its own. Once the audience looks away or the reward ends, the light fades. Without an internal flame to sustain it, this type of motivation risks flickering out, leaving individuals without the drive to keep going once the spotlight moves on.

Unlike the candle, the spotlight does not share its light; it consumes energy from outside sources and directs it in a narrow, intense beam. This reliance means its glow is conditional, temporary, and often isolated, lacking the warmth and lasting reach of a candle’s flame.

I’ve benefited from the spotlight too. In sports, that fiery drive to “kick someone’s ass” pushed me hard in the moment—it was powerful fuel for competition and performance. But that type of motivation is like a flashbang: intense and energizing but doesn’t last. Once the moment passes, the spotlight dims, and it’s back to finding your own candle.

Lasting Power vs. Flash in the Pan

Both the candle and the spotlight have their place. The spotlight can ignite bursts of exceptional energy and motivation that spur achievement, but its brilliance is temporary. It’s a brilliant flash that dares you to seize the moment but can quickly leave you in shadow.

The candle, while less flashy, offers lasting power. It illuminates not just external paths but the internal landscape of purpose and passion. The gentle, consistent glow of a candle motivates through thick and thin, fueling creativity, resilience, and long-term growth.

Which Light Guides Your Motivation?

Next time motivation feels elusive, ask: is your drive fueled by the internal candle or the external spotlight? Harnessing the steady, self-generated fire of the candle can lead to sustainable success and satisfaction. Meanwhile, the spotlight moment can still inspire and elevate—but is best embraced as a complement, not a replacement, for the candle’s enduring light.

Embrace your candle. Nurture it. Let it burn warmly and consistently, lighting your true path, long after the spotlight’s glare has moved on.