Are they the same? Close, but not quite. We often use the terms together or even in exchange for each other. It might be getting somewhat picky and somewhat semantical, but there are differences.
You don’t really want to be living in a perpetual state of needing “motivation”. Having to be motivated to the ‘things’ is because the ‘things’ aren’t naturally desirable. Motivation isn’t negative or bad.
You vacuum so your floor is clean. You may not love vacuuming, but the motivation to have a clean house is helpful. You are motivated to read the textbook so you can get a good grade on the test.
Motivation usually comes from within you and usually involves an action. We need motivation, but we also need inspiration.
Inspiration is the “spark” of creativity or insight that helps you come up with ideas and solutions. Often deriving from an outside source, but often making you feel good and and uplifted.
You see a neat painting and get inspired to do your own painting or drawing. You listen to motivational speaker and are inspired to share your own story.
The way I see it, we need motivation. It helps us do the the “do”. AND We want to be inspired as much as possible.
