Keeping your fire burning is the foundation of everything we do—especially when no one’s watching. Sure, external motivation is great. It’s like that spark you feel when someone notices your effort. It’s the excitement you get from a friend or stranger who’s pumped up by your journey. But what happens when that applause fades? How do you fan your flame when it’s just you in the room?

For me, the first step is to remember what that flame truly is and where it began. Some might call it purpose, others passion, but I like to see it as God’s light in me. It’s there to guide and ground me, and gratitude becomes the fan that keeps it going.

Gratitude might sound simple, but it’s powerful. Being thankful just to be here, in this moment, with a body that lets me experience life. Thankful for the highs and lows, the good times and the challenges. Thankful to have something to grow and glow through, something to rise against. Gratitude is fuel—every moment of thankfulness feeds the flame, bringing warmth and strength when we need it most.

Love, too, is a strong fan to that flame. Love for God, love for life, love for family, love for self. It’s not just about fueling the fire but about giving it a purpose beyond just surviving. This love keeps it steady and bright, knowing that there’s so much worth living and fighting for, no matter what happens on the outside.

Then, there’s the drive that comes from having goals—moving forward with purpose. Setting and pursuing good, positive goals fans the flame too. It gives the fire a direction, like an arrow aiming at something meaningful. Goals, big or small, are reminders of the journey ahead and the growth we’re reaching toward.

Discipline and consistency are also huge. Every time we show up, even when it’s hard or inconvenient, we’re fanning the flame with commitment. With every bit of enthusiasm and effort, we’re saying, “This matters.” So let’s add enthusiasm to the mix, that joy and passion for everything we’re working towards.

Some folks might rely on fear or anger to keep going. However, I’ve learned that those emotions drain the flame over time. Running on fear is exhausting. Anger eventually consumes itself. Instead, channel bravery. Face fear with courage, and you’ll find the flame growing stronger. If your fire has been running on anger, try replacing it with resolve, dignity, and honor. Those are fuels that don’t burn out.

A sense of worthiness is another powerful fanner of flames. Remembering that we’re meant to shine, that there’s value in our journey—that adds a strength like no other. It’s a reminder that we’re here for a reason. This fire deserves every ounce of energy we put into it.

Let’s not forget purpose—the “why” behind the journey. Fan the flame with a reminder of why you started and the vision that keeps you going. Knowing that God wants you to win is the wind beneath the flame. No obstacle is too great. The only limits are the ones we impose on ourselves. These thoughts help it grow and endure.

We can also fan our flames with positivity, with a focus on absorbing the good around us. We find reminders of light on the other side of challenges through reading, watching, or experiencing things. By focusing on victory, by seeing ourselves as capable and resilient, we’re feeding the fire in a way that strengthens and sustains.

Creativity is yet another beautiful way to fan the flame. Expressing yourself through art, writing, music—whatever lets you channel your energy and ideas. Creative outlets are powerful because they bring fresh air to the fire, fueling it with imagination and inspiration. Self-belief, too, is key. Every time you tell yourself, “I can do this,” you’re adding to the flame’s strength.

Now, here’s my ideas all together to get us started:

1. Gratitude – Be thankful for the experience, the journey, the challenges, and the blessings.

2. Love – Fan the flame with love for God, life, family, and yourself.

3. Goals – Always aim for something positive, something that lights the way forward.

4. Discipline and Consistency – Show up every day, giving it your best.

5. Enthusiasm – Embrace each step with excitement and joy.

6. Courage – Transform fear into bravery, and face challenges with strength.

7. Resolve, Dignity, and Honor – Keep going with integrity, knowing you’re worthy.

8. Purpose – Remind yourself of the “why” that drives you.

9. Positivity – Absorb everything good, look for the brighter side, and focus on victories.

10. Creativity – Use a creative outlet to bring fresh energy to your journey.

11. Self-Belief – Know you can, and let that confidence fan your flame.

These are just a few ideas to get us started. Now it’s your turn! How do you keep your fire alive? What fuels your journey when no one’s around? Let’s add to the list and inspire each other to keep fanning the flame.