Special Stop: The Fuel Station – Sources of Motivation

 What Keeps His Engine Running

“A journey is meant to be traveled, and to keep going, one must have something or someone who will fuel and refuel them along the way. What and who are they? Let us see, folks!” says Mr. Conductor enigmatically.

What motivates him? Let us first start with the WHOs—those who fuel his engine to keep going.

First and foremost, his parents, particularly his mother, have been a constant provider of his basic needs, life advice, and profound guidance. Her sacrifices to send him to school serve as a pivotal reason for him to persevere. She covers it all—physically, by providing for daily necessities; mentally and emotionally, through her constant guidance; and financially, by working hard to pay off their expenses.

Next to that is his family, particularly his siblings, who have been instrumental in guiding and shaping him into who he is today—from offering advice about the hardships of college life to helping support his daily needs.

And, of course, his friends and peers, who have accompanied him throughout his journey, from listening to simple rants to providing significant help when needed.

Above all, the Almighty God, who has guided him through his highs and lows, is the being he turns to in moments of both humble victories and life’s challenges.

Now, what drives him to keep going? First and foremost, his adaptability—the ability to adjust to new environments and eventually excel in them. As his mother once said, he is capable of succeeding in any course or program as long as he dedicates himself to it. This is not merely a comforting phrase but a truth his mother has seen in him.

Most of all, his principle to sail through the torrent currents of Psychology life is anchored in the quote, “Who does not like a little challenge?” He believes that anyone is capable of achieving anything, but that does not mean it comes easily. Obstacles are part of the journey—yet instead of being discouraged, he welcomes them as challenges to overcome.

Just like in his senior high school years, he took the STEM strand despite not liking Mathematics, but his performance spoke otherwise. He excelled and became one of the top achievers in his graduating batch. The same applies now in his Psychology journey, as proven by his achievement of earning the highest grade in their major subject.

“Well said, Mr. Conductor. I hope everyone will take his situation and what fuels him as an example,” says a grown woman passenger in her mid-40s.

“Indeed, Madame. Now that we’ve uncovered his inspirations and driving forces, what about his achievements? We’ll see them on our next stop, folks!” shouts Mr. Conductor with eagerness to narrate.