Motivation Defined
It is often proclaimed that motivation serves as the invigorating spice of life, infusing vibrancy and purpose into our existence, regardless of whether our circumstances are perceived as monotonous or otherwise. This essential ingredient, motivation, has the power to transform even the most mundane aspects of life into a journey filled with enthusiasm and determination. Thus, it is clear that motivation is not just a mere accessory, but rather an indispensable element in the recipe of life. Myself, in those days, was a site civil engineer posted at MES, Banar, Jodhpur site in 2003. The job involved Construction cum supervision of Ammunition Sheds at Banar, Jodhp. At the time of the incident, I was in charge of supervising the construction of a ROAD over an army field that would connect two villages.I was proud of my work and hoped to finish the project on time.
About Banar, Jodhpur MES Site
Banar is a village in the Jodhpur district of Rajasthan, India. It is surrounded by the arid Thar desert, but it also has some patches of greenery and woods as motivational support to the flora and fauna. The woods near Banar are home to various species of birds, animals, and plants. Some of the common birds found in the woods are peacocks, parrots, sparrows, and eagles. The animals include deer, foxes, jackals, and monkeys. The plants include neem, Babool, Khejri, and Ber. The woods near Banar provide a contrast to the dry and sandy landscape of the region. They also offer a source of motivation for livelihood, recreation and bio diversity for the local people.
The closest one is the Khejarli Forest, which is about 30 km away from Banar. This forest is famous for its history of environmental conservation, as it was the site of a mass sacrifice by the Bishnoi community in 1730 to protect the Khejri trees from being cut down by the king’s men.
Another forest near Banar is the Machia Biological Park, which is about 40 km away from Banar. This is a zoological park that houses various animals and birds, such as lions, tigers, leopards, deer, crocodiles, peacocks, and parrots. The Park also has a nature interpretation center, a bird-watching point, and a children’s play area. It also has a bird-watching point and a fort that offers a spectacular view of the sunset.
A third forest near Banar is the Thar Desert National Park, which is about 50 km away from Banar. This is a national park that covers an area of 3162 sq km in the Thar Desert, and is one of the largest and most diverse desert ecosystems in the world. The Park is home to many endangered and rare species, such as the great Indian bustard, the blackbuck, the chinkara, the desert fox, and the caracal. The Park also has a rich flora, with over 600 species of plants, including cacti, succulents, grasses, and shrubs.
The fourth one is Bhainsrorgarh Wildlife Sanctuary which is situated in the Chittorgarh district of Rajasthan, about 235 kilometers from Banar. It covers an area of 229 square kilometers and lies along the banks of the Chambal River. It is known for its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife, such as panthers, wild boars, jackals, hyenas, sloth bears, crocodiles, and more. It also has a historical fort with a temple within its premises.
The Site of Motivation
One evening, I decided to inspect the site after the workers had left. I took my bike and rode along the dirt road that led to the Jodhpur city passing through Umaid Bhavan Palace. Perched on top of the Chittar Hill & built between 1928 – 1943, the palace is an epitome of beauty and considered the royalist among the 20th century Rajput palaces built in the name of Maharaja Umaid Singh of the Marwar-Rathore dynasty, who commissioned the palace to give employment to his famine-stricken people. Designed by British architect Henry Lancaster, using interlocked golden Chittar sandstone for the outer structure, the inner architecture is a blend of Indo-Saracenic and Western Art Deco styles designed in Makrana marble and Burmese teak wood.
I enjoyed the cool breeze and the scenic view of the city and the hills. I reached the site and parked my bike near a tree. I walked around the SITE, checking the pillars, the beams, and the cables. I was quite satisfied with the progress and made some notes on my clipboard.
I decided to head back before it got too dark. I walked back to my bike and tried to start it. But to my dismay, the bike did not respond. I checked the fuel tank and saw that it was empty. I cursed myself for forgetting to refill it. I looked around and saw that there was no sign of any other vehicle or person. I realized that I was stranded in the middle of nowhere. I had a strange but persistent feeling of fear as later I came to know from a Times of India report that often male leopards try to seek safer haven in Thar deserts containing districts like Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Barmer, Bikaner, Nagaur etc. This is due to the fact that lower competition, availability of food and water, increase in forest and agricultural coverage in the Indira Gandhi Canal Command area generally motivate the vulnerable leopard to more preferable pockets of Thar as per research conducted by the National Academy of Sciences of India. The report further states that over the past decade, wildlife experts have recorded range extension and persistent motivational movement of the leopard from its established habitat in the western Aravalli range towards Thar and Fourteen cases of the de-motivational presence of male leopards in five Thar districts including Churu was reported between 2010 to 2018 at a distance ranging from 55.4–413.4km from their known species distribution.
The Motivated Predator
Only male leopard’s motivational movement has been currently reported, but if female leopards too get motivated and join them then this place could be a safe haven for them leading to increasing human-leopard conflicts in the region. Also the male leopards are much bigger in size and can stead much longer than their female counterparts.
Leopards are one of the most adaptable and widespread predators in India. They can be found in various habitats, including forests, grasslands, and rocky areas. Rajasthan, the largest state in India, is home to around 1,200 to 1,300 leopards, according to the latest census. Leopards are often seen near Banar, a village in the Jodhpur district of Rajasthan. Banar is located near the Aravalli Hills, which provide a suitable habitat for leopards as they offer a mix of forested areas and rocky outcrops. Leopards in Banar have also learned to coexist with humans and have been found in areas near human settlements. However, this also poses a risk of human-leopard conflict, as leopards may prey on motivational livestock or get motivative and attack people. Motivational Conservation efforts are being undertaken by the government and non-governmental organizations to protect the leopards in Banar and ensure their motivational survival for future generations.
Some of the best places to see leopards near Banar are:
Jawai Bandh Conservation Reserve: This reserve is situated about 140 kilometers from Banar and covers an area of 126 square kilometers. It is known for its high density of leopards, which live in harmony with the local Rabari community. The leopards can be seen resting on the granite hills or hunting in the grasslands. The reserve also has a rich motivational birdlife, including flamingos, pelicans, cranes, and raptors.
Bera Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is located about 150 kilometers from Banar and covers an area of 50 square kilometers. It is also known as the “Leopard Country” of Rajasthan, as it has a large population of leopards. The leopards can be spotted on the rocky outcrops or near the Jawai river. The sanctuary also has other motivational wildlife, such as hyenas, jackals, crocodiles, and birds.
Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is situated about 200 kilometers from Banar and covers an area of 578 square kilometers. It is part of the Aravalli Hills and surrounds the Kumbhalgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The sanctuary has a diverse terrain, ranging from hills, valleys, and plateaus to rivers, lakes, and waterfalls. The sanctuary has a good number of leopards, as well as other motivational animals, such as wolves, sloth bears, nilgai, chinkara, and birds.
However, I took out my phone and tried to call for help. But there was no network coverage. I felt a surge of panic and frustration. I wondered how I would get back to his camp, which was about 20 kilometers away. I thought of walking, but I knew that it would take hours and I would have to cross the woods, which were infested or may be with wild animals. I thought of waiting, but I knew that it was unlikely that anyone would pass by at this hour. I walked for about an hour, covering about five kilometers without any undue motivation. I was tired and thirsty, but did not stop. I kept walking, hoping to see some light or hear some sound. But all I saw was darkness and all I heard was silence. I felt a chill in the air and a fear in my heart. I wondered if I had made the right decision.
Finding Motivation in the Long Dark & Silent Night
The de-motivational night was dark and silent, except for the occasional rustle of leaves or the snap of a twig. I was walking through the wood, hoping to reach the 19 FAD, MES Banar Site on the other side before dawn. I had heard stories of leopards roaming in these parts, but I had no choice but to take this shortcut. I gripped my flashlight tightly, scanning the shadows for any sign of movement. I felt a cold sweat on my forehead and a knot in my stomach. Every sound made me jump, every shadow made me shiver.
I tried to calm myself, motivate myself telling that leopards were shy and elusive creatures, that they would avoid humans unless provoked or hungry. I told myself that I was safe, that I had nothing to fear. But deep down, I knew that I was lying to myself. I knew that leopards were cunning and stealthy predators, that they could strike without warning or noise. I knew that I was in their motivated territory, that I was an intruder and a potential prey. I knew that I was in danger, that I had everything to fear.
As I walked on, I heard a low de-motivational growl behind me. I turned around, shining my flashlight in the direction of the sound. I saw a pair of yellow eyes staring back at me, reflecting the light like two glowing coals. I saw a sleek body, covered with black spots on a tawny fur. I saw a long tail, twitching with anticipation. I thought saw a leopard, ready to pounce. I felt a surge of panic, a rush of adrenaline. I dropped my flashlight and ran, hoping to escape the beast without any motivation. But I knew it was too late. I knew I had made a fatal mistake. I knew I was doomed. But it was a big jackal.
I was about to cross a bend in the road when I heard a loud roar. I froze in my track and turned my flashlight towards the source of the sound. I thought I saw a pair of de-motivational glowing eyes and a huge body in the distant bushes. I thought It was a leopard, and it was staring right at him. I felt a surge of terror and adrenaline. I knew that I had no chance of outrunning or fighting the beast. I thought that this was the end of my life.
I closed my eyes and prayed. I sought motivation from my stars. I thought of my family, my friends, and my work. I thought of all the things I wanted to do and all the things I regretted not doing. I wished I had a chance to say goodbye to them. I waited for the inevitable attack.
The Motor Bike as Motivation
But it did not come. Instead, I heard another sound. It was the sound of a motorbike and suddenly all sort of motivation grew in me. I opened my eyes and saw a bright light approaching me. It was a motor biker, and he was speeding towards him. I thought, I saw the leopard turn its attention towards the new threat. I felt that I saw the motor biker swerve and hit the leopard with his bike & I felt the leopard fall and roll over. I saw the motor biker stop and get off his bike. I saw him run towards me and pull me up thus motivating me limitlessly.
“Are you okay?” the motor biker asked.
“Yes, yes, thank you, thank you so much!” I said.
“Come on, let’s get out of here. That leopard might get up any moment,” the drunk motor biker said.
He helped me get on his bike and drove away. I held on to him and thanked him again and again. He asked me who I was and where was I going.
“I’m Ravi, and I’m a journalist. I was on my way to cover a story about the Road you are building. I heard it’s a remarkable project and you are the engineer in charge,” Ravi said. Ravi also enquired about my native place when I told him that I’m from Kolkata. Then I also told him that
Kolkata is a city of contrasts and contradictions. It is the capital of West Bengal, one of the most populous and culturally rich states in India. It is also the former capital of British India, and the legacy of colonialism is evident in its architecture, institutions, and culture. Kolkata is a city of history, art, literature, and politics. It is the birthplace of many famous personalities, such as Rabindranath Tagore, Satyajit Ray, Mother Teresa, and Subhas Chandra Bose. It is also the home of the Durga Puja, a spectacular festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil.
Kolkata is a city of commerce, industry, and education. It is one of the major ports and financial centers of India. It has a vibrant and diverse economy, ranging from jute and cotton mills to IT and biotechnology. It has some of the oldest and most prestigious universities and research institutes in the country. It is also a city of innovation and creativity, with a thriving film, music, and theater scene.
Kolkata is a city of challenges and opportunities and also motivation for many. It is one of the most densely populated and polluted cities in the world. It faces many problems, such as poverty, slums, traffic, and floods. It also has many potential solutions, such as urban planning, social welfare, environmental awareness, and civic participation. Kolkata is a city of resilience and hope, with a spirit of optimism and pride. It is a city that never gives up, and always strives for a better future.
Then I came to my senses “Yes, I am the engineer. But how did you know?” I asked.
“I saw your bike and your clipboard near the Road Site. I guessed you were the engineer. I was curious to meet you and ask you some questions. But I never expected to find you in such a situation,” Ravi said.
“Well, you saved my life. I owe you everything. You are a hero,” I said.
“No, I’m not. I just did what anyone would do. You are the hero. You are the one who is building a Road that will change the lives of thousands of people. You are the one who has the will and the way,” Ravi said.
We reached MES’s camp and Ravi dropped him off. We exchanged our contact details and promised to keep in touch. I thanked him again and invited him to the inauguration of the Road. Ravi accepted and wished him good luck. We parted as friends.
I entered my tent and collapsed on my bed. I was de- motivated, exhausted and relieved. I had survived a night of horror and found a friend of honor. I had learned a valuable lesson. I had realized that life is full of surprises and challenges. I had understood that no matter how hard the situation, there is always a way out. story shows us that where there is a will, there is a way. It teaches us that nothing is impossible if we have the determination and perseverance to achieve our goals. It also encourages us to be optimistic and resilient in the face of difficulties and challenges. So, I had experienced the power of will and the grace of fate. I had lived a motivational story.
Conclusions
To conclude
Willpower and determination are two important motivational qualities for achieving your goals and overcoming challenges. They involve the ability to resist temptations, control your impulses, and persist in the face of difficulties. Some people may have more natural willpower and determination than others, but they are not fixed traits. You can improve them with practice and some strategies. Here are some tips to boost your motivation and willpower and determination:
- Set realistic and specific goals. Having a clear vision of what you want to achieve and why can motivate you to stay focused and committed. Break down your goals into smaller and manageable steps, and track your progress regularly.
- Practice self-control. Willpower is like a muscle that can be strengthened with motivated exercise. Challenge yourself to resist temptations and distractions that may interfere with your goals. For example, if you want to quit smoking, avoid situations where you might be tempted to light up. If you want to study more, turn off your phone and social media de- motivational notifications while you work.
- Build a routine. Having a consistent schedule can help you form good habits and reduce the need for constant decision-making. Plan your day ahead and stick to your routine as much as possible. For example, if you want to exercise more, set a specific time and place for your workout and make it a part of your daily routine.
- Exercise regularly. Physical activity can boost your energy, mood, and mental health. It can also improve your self-esteem and confidence, which can enhance your motivation and willpower and determination. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, and include some strength training and flexibility exercises as well.
- Practice mindfulness. Mindfulness is the awareness of your thoughts, feelings, and sensations in the present moment, without judging them. It can help you cope with stress, emotions, and cravings that may undermine your willpower and determination. You can practice mindfulness by meditating, breathing deeply, or paying attention to your senses.
- Get enough sleep. Sleep is an essential motivational element for your physical and mental well-being. It can also affect your willpower and determination, as lack of sleep can impair your judgment, memory, and self-control. Try to get at least seven to nine hours of quality sleep every night, and avoid caffeine, alcohol, and screens before bedtime.
- Surround yourself with supportive people. Having a positive and supportive social network can help you stay motivated and accountable. Seek out people who share your motivational goals and values, and who can motivate and encourage you, inspire you, and challenge you. You can also join online communities, groups, or forums that are related to your interests and goals.