Advance Level Conversations- Series 3- Lesson 1- Talk about Motivations & Inspirations
In this lesson, you learn 10 conversation questions about motivation with sample answers for having a normal conversation discussing motivation. We also have added 10 extra conversation questions if you decide to extend your discussion. Motivation is a powerful force that drives us to achieve our goals, overcome challenges, and grow as individuals. It can come from within or be sparked by the people and environment around us. Exploring motivation reveals not only what we strive for but also what truly matters to us.
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1- Have you ever tried to lose weight? What motivated you, and how did you stay committed?
Yes, I’ve tried to lose weight before, mainly to feel healthier and more energetic. What really motivated me was seeing how sluggish I felt every day and wanting to improve my overall lifestyle. I stayed committed by setting small, realistic goals and tracking my progress. I also found that exercising with a friend made it more fun and helped me stay accountable. Even on tough days, I reminded myself how far I’d come.
2- What motivated you to start a diet? Can you explain?
I started a diet mostly because I realized my eating habits were affecting my focus and mood. I was constantly tired and my skin was breaking out. After doing some research, I learned that a better diet could actually help with all that. So I decided to make small changes like cutting down on sugar and drinking more water. Once I saw positive results, it motivated me to keep going.
3- Is it important to motivate children? Why do you think early motivation affects their long-term development?
Yes, motivating children is super important because it shapes how they see themselves and what they believe they can do. Early motivation builds confidence and encourages a growth mindset. Kids who are supported tend to take more initiative and handle challenges better. It helps them become curious learners rather than being afraid of failure. Over time, this attitude carries into adulthood and can really shape their success.
4- How do you motivate children? Could you give an example?
I motivate children by turning tasks into something engaging and encouraging effort rather than just results. For example, if a child is struggling with reading, I might read with them and praise small improvements. I also try to relate things to their interests, like using stories with their favorite characters. Positive reinforcement, like saying “I’m proud of you for trying,” really goes a long way. Making them feel seen and heard matters.
5- Can some people destroy your motivation? How do you handle negativity?
Yes, some people can definitely affect your motivation, especially if they’re constantly negative or dismissive. When that happens, I try to set boundaries and remind myself why I started. I also surround myself with more supportive people or take breaks to reset. Journaling or venting in a healthy way helps too. At the end of the day, I try not to let someone else’s mindset shape mine.
6- What is something a boss can do to motivate their workers? Have you seen this happen in real life? Explain the outcome.
A good boss can motivate their team by recognizing their efforts and giving them meaningful feedback. I once saw a manager celebrate small wins during weekly meetings and it really boosted morale. Employees felt appreciated and started going the extra mile without being asked. It created a positive work culture where everyone supported each other. Simple appreciation made a big difference.
7- How are you best motivated? Is it through praise, challenge, rewards, or personal satisfaction?
I’m mostly motivated by personal satisfaction and challenge. I like setting goals for myself and seeing progress, it gives me a sense of purpose. That said, a bit of praise or acknowledgment every now and then definitely helps keep the energy up. Challenges push me to stay curious and keep learning. When I feel like I’m growing, I stay the most motivated.
8- How do you motivate your friends? Could you share it?
I usually motivate my friends by being their cheerleader and helping them see their strengths. If someone’s feeling stuck, I’ll remind them of how far they’ve come and help them break things down into smaller steps. Sometimes just listening and showing that I believe in them is enough. I’ll also share quotes or stories that inspired me when I was in a similar spot. It’s about being there for them, without pushing too hard.
9- Have you ever tried to quit smoking? What helped or hindered your efforts?
I’ve never been a smoker, but I’ve seen friends try to quit. What helped them most was having a strong “why” like wanting to be healthier for their family. Support systems also made a big difference, like accountability partners or apps that track progress. What usually made it harder was stress or being around people who still smoked. Replacing the habit with something positive, like exercising or chewing gum, helped some of them succeed.
10- How do you define motivation? Can you give an example?
To me, motivation is the drive or desire that pushes you to act toward a goal. It’s like the internal spark that keeps you going, even when things get hard. For example, if someone studies every night because they want to become a doctor, that goal becomes their motivation. It doesn’t mean they’re always excited, but they stay committed. Motivation is what helps you show up even on the tough days.
More discussion questions about motivation
For a longer conversation about motivation, you can use the below discussion questions about motivation:
1- What are some of the factors of motivation? How do these factors interact or change over time?
2- What part does motivation play in effective teaching? How can a teacher’s enthusiasm influence students?
3- What is the role of motivation for slow learners? What tools or methods can support their growth?
4- What are three things that motivate you? Why are these important to you?
5- Do you feel motivated when you are at school? What influences that feeling—subjects, teachers, or peers?
6- Do you feel motivated when learning something new? What makes learning exciting or difficult for you?
7- What is your proudest accomplishment so far this year? How did motivation help you achieve it?
8- What is the difference between internal and external motivation? Which one influences you more, and why?
9- Do you find that motivated people are more successful than unmotivated people? Can you think of a real-life example?
10- How do you maintain your motivation when you fail? What’s your strategy to bounce back or stay focused?
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