Monroe’s Motivated Sequence and How It Transformed My Journey to Business Success
Hi, I’m Ryan Zofay, an entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and business leader. Throughout my life, I’ve faced challenges that pushed me to dig deep, evolve, and transform. From overcoming tragedies like loss of family and addiction to helping build We Level Up Treatment Centers into a thriving, nine-figure business, every step has been a lesson in perseverance, strategy, and transformation. One tool that has fundamentally shaped how I inspire change and drive action—whether in my own life or as a motivational speaker coaching others—is Monroe’s Motivated Sequence.
If you’ve never heard of it, don’t worry. By the end of this guide, you’ll understand Monroe’s Motivated Sequence and know how to harness it to inspire action, drive decisions, and even transform your career or business. Next, we’ll explore Monroe’s motivated sequence outline, examples, steps, patterns, and samples.
My firsthand account applying Monroe’s Motivated Sequence Outline in my life & business.
How does Monroes motivated sequence apply in real life?
Allow me to share my personal Monroe’s motivated sequence example that changed my trajectory. Years ago, long before I founded We Level Up mental health centers, I was at rock bottom. Addiction and incarceration had taken everything from me—friends, family, purpose. My future seemed bleak, and I felt trapped in a cycle of self-destruction.
But one day, I asked myself a simple, life-changing question: What if I could inspire others to heal by healing myself first? That question became my “attention-grabbing hook,” the start of my Monroe motivated sequence speech to myself. Here’s Monroe’s motivated sequence outline that I applied to my plight:
- Attention: I had to confront the reality of my situation. My path was leading nowhere, and the thought shook me.
- Need: I realized the issue wasn’t just my addiction—it was my lack of purpose, belief, and fulfillment. Without addressing my self limiting beliefs and their deep rooted beliefs, I couldn’t turn things around. I didn’t know what I should do with my life.
- Satisfaction: I began imagining solutions. What if I committed to personal development goals, seeking help, and continuously learning from leaders and mentors? What if I followed a structured path to recovery and growth?
- Visualization: I envisioned a future where I wasn’t just surviving but thriving. I could build a better life and create spaces where others could heal and grow. Conduct your vision quest to picture your future self.
- Action: My first step was sharing my story and asking for help. Fast forward to today, and that decision led me to inspire thousands worldwide, build successful businesses, and develop a fulfilling career as a business coach and leader. Along the way I learned to adapt, overcome and improvise to pivot arriving at ultimate success. Never giving up.
Applying Monroe’s motivated sequence in Business at We Level Up
When I began building We Level Up, I knew we needed a compelling, people-focused strategy to connect with our audience (patients). By applying Monroe’s motivated sequence, our message went beyond our services—it became a story of transformation.
Here’s an example of how we’ve used Monroe’s motivated sequence in our outreach:
- Attention: “Did you know that over 21 million Americans are battling addiction—but only 10% seek treatment?”
- Need: “Addiction doesn’t just affect individuals; it tears families apart, diminishes potential, and leaves countless lives in crisis.”
- Satisfaction: “At We Level Up, we offer holistic, evidence-based programs that address not just the addiction but the underlying struggles, helping you rebuild your life.”
- Visualization: “Imagine walking into a space where you feel understood, supported, and empowered to change. Picture yourself a year from now—stronger, healthier, free.”
- Action: “Take the first step today. Call us for a free consultation and discover how we can transform your future.”
This structure applies to marketing but is also a game-changer in leadership, coaching, and personal relationships.
My First-Hand Account of Persuasive Communications with Monroe’s motivated sequence as a speaker, Leader & Coach
As a motivational speaker and business coach, I have used Monroe’s motivated sequence in various contexts to inspire and persuade audiences. This powerful framework has been instrumental in my journey as a communicator, helping me craft compelling speeches and presentations that drive action.
How Monroes motivated sequence Transformed my career
My introduction to the Monroe motivated sequence was a turning point in my career. I was looking for a structured approach to persuasive communication that could engage audiences and motivate them to take action.
The sequence consists of five steps: Attention, Need, Satisfaction, Visualization, and Action. Each step builds upon the previous one, creating a persuasive narrative that resonates with the audience.
How I apply Monroe’s motivated sequence steps
- Attention: The first step is to capture the audience’s attention. This can be done through a compelling story, statistic, or question that resonates with them. For instance, I often start my speeches with personal anecdotes that set the stage for the rest of the presentation. Learn more about capturing attention as a top law of attraction speaker.
- Need: After grabbing attention, it’s essential to highlight the problem or need that your message addresses. This step involves explaining why the issue matters and how it affects the audience. I emphasize the urgency and relevance of the problem to ensure the audience understands its importance.
- Satisfaction: Here, you present a solution to the problem identified in the previous step. It’s crucial to show how your solution addresses the audience’s needs and provides clear benefits. I use examples or testimonials to build credibility and trust. Discover personal development strategies for presenting solutions.
- Visualization: This step involves helping the audience imagine the outcomes of your solution. You paint a vivid picture of success, making it tangible and desirable. I use storytelling techniques to make the visualization more engaging and memorable. Learn about effective future vision techniques.
- Action: Finally, you end with a clear and compelling call to action. Specify exactly what you want the audience to do next, ensuring no ambiguity. I always provide actionable steps that the audience can start with immediately.
Monroe’s motivated sequence example
I have applied Monroe’s Motivated Sequence in various contexts, from business presentations to motivational speeches. One of my most memorable experiences was using this sequence to inspire a group of entrepreneurs to take action on their business ideas. Following the sequence, I could engage them, highlight the need for innovation, present a solution, visualize success, and prompt them to start working on their projects.
Final Thoughts
Monroe’s Motivated Sequence has been a game-changer in my career as a motivational speaker. It provides a structured approach to persuasive communication that resonates with audiences and drives action. Whether you’re a business leader, entrepreneur, or simply looking to improve your communication skills, this sequence offers a powerful framework for achieving your goals.
Resources
For more insights on effective communication and leadership, consider these resources:
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Table of Contents
What is Monroe’s Motivated Sequence?
Monroe’s motivated sequence is a robust framework for crafting persuasive presentations and speeches. Developed by Alan Monroe, this sequence helps speakers engage their audience, highlight a need, present a solution, visualize outcomes, to elicit motivated action. As a transformative leader, I have seen firsthand how effectively this sequence motivates audiences and drives results.
The Five Steps in Monroe’s Motivated Sequence: A Guide to Persuasive Communication
Monroe’s Motivated Sequence is a five-step communication framework designed to inspire and persuade people to take action. It has become a staple worldwide in persuasive speeches, marketing strategies, and leadership communication. Below is a rundown of the five steps in Monroe’s motivated sequence.
What are the five steps of Monroe’s motivated sequence?
Here’s a breakdown of the five steps in Monroe’s motivated sequence, along with my coaching insights on how to apply them effectively.
| Step | How | My Advice |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Attention (Grab the audience’s focus) | Grab the audience’s focus with a compelling story, question, or statistic that gets your audience hooked. Without attention, your message is lost. | “Start with a hook that resonates emotionally. Use personal anecdotes or surprising facts to capture attention and set the stage for your message. Consider using a shocking fact, question, story, or bold statement to hook them.” |
| 2. Need (Create a sense of urgency or highlight a problem) | Highlight the problem or challenge that resonates with the audience. Emphasize its urgency and relevance. Explain why it matters to them. | “Identify a pain point that your audience can relate to. Make it clear why this issue matters to them and needs to be addressed now. Be clear, and show the audience there’s a problem that directly affects them and needs addressing.” |
| 3. Satisfaction (Present your solution) | Present a solution that addresses the identified need. Highlight its benefits and how it solves the problem. Show how your proposal, product, or idea addresses their pain points and offers clear advantages. | “Through examples and testimonials, build credibility, showing how your solution provides clear benefits and solves the problem effectively. Make sure to offer a clear, actionable solution through your product, service, or idea that solves the problem.” |
| 4. Visualization (Paint the picture of success/failure) | Help the audience imagine the potential outcomes of your solution. Paint a vivid picture of success or the consequences of inaction. Conjur an image of the possible transformation vs the the cost of staying stagnant. | “Use storytelling techniques to help your audience picture the positive outcomes of adopting your solution. Make it tangible and desirable. Help the audience visualize the benefits of adopting your solution (or consequences of not).” |
| 5. Action (Prompt immediate action) | End with a clear and compelling call to action. Avoid ambiguity. Tell the audience exactly what you want them to do next. Provide a step by step action plan. | “Be direct and clear about what action you want your audience to take. Provide a simple, actionable step that they can start with immediately. Give them a specific, easy next step. Make it clear, urgent, and doable.” |
Monroe’s Motivated Sequence is a structured approach to persuasive communication that can be applied in various contexts, from business presentations to personal pitches. By following these five steps—attention, need, satisfaction, visualization, and action—you can craft a compelling narrative that engages your audience and motivates them to take action. Whether you’re a business leader, entrepreneur, or simply looking to improve your communication skills, this sequence offers a robust framework for achieving your goals.
Why Monroe’s Motivated Sequence Works:
- Psychology-driven: Moves people from awareness → emotional connection → action.
- Clear path: Each step builds naturally, reducing resistance.
- Audience-centric: Focuses on the audience’s needs, not just what you want to sell.
How You Can Use Monroe’s Motivated Sequence
If you’re a business executive, entrepreneur, or aspiring coach, here’s how to implement this motivation sequence outline in your daily life:
- Craft Persuasive Speeches
Whether presenting to investors or rallying your team, the motivated sequence pattern ensures your message resonates and inspires action.
- Enhance Customer Growth Strategies
Use the motivated sequence steps to guide potential customers through their decision-making process. Identify their needs, propose solutions, and encourage them to act.
- Coaching for Transformation
When working with clients, the motivated sequence outline helps structure conversations that empower them to overcome challenges and take meaningful steps forward.
- Career Transitions
Considering changing careers at 40? Use Monroe’s Motivated Sequence to clarify your goals, identify your needs, and take bold action toward a new chapter.
Top 10 Monroe’s Motivated Sequence Examples: Sample How to Persuade, Inspire, & Move People to Action
Monroe’s Motivated Sequence is one of the most powerful communication tools I’ve applied throughout my career—whether motivating an audience, coaching entrepreneurs, or leading personal development workshops.
This sequence isn’t just a formula; it’s a time-tested method rooted in psychology. It naturally connects with people’s emotions and logic, moving them to take action. Whether you deliver a keynote, pitch a product, lead a team, or advocate for change, learning to craft a substantial Monroe’s motivated sequence outline sample will transform your communication effectiveness.
Quick Overview of the 5 steps of Monroe’s motivated sequence
- Attention – Capture focus immediately
- Need – Establish a problem or gap
- Satisfaction – Present a solution to the problem
- Visualization – Help the audience imagine the positive results (or negative consequences)
- Action – Call them to act now, clearly and confidently
Top 10 Monroe’s Motivated Sequence Examples
Below, I’m sharing ten practical, real-world Monroe’s Motivated Sequence examples. Each example can be adapted and used in sales pitches, public speeches, leadership conversations, or personal growth scenarios.
1. Public Speaking Pitch
1. Public Speaking Pitch Example: “Why Your Voice Matters”
- Attention: What if I told you the next influential leader is sitting here, but no one has heard them speak yet?
- Need: Most people never find the courage to speak up because they fear being judged or misunderstood.
- Satisfaction: A public speaking program provides the skills, structure, and confidence to communicate powerfully.
- Visualization: Imagine delivering your story with authority, inspiring others, and leading change in your community.
- Action: Register today and start mastering your voice.
2. Health & Wellness Example
2. Health & Wellness Example: “Reclaim Your Energy”
- Attention: Are you waking up tired no matter how much you sleep?
- Need: Chronic fatigue and stress are silently impacting millions every day.
- Satisfaction: A guided wellness plan can restore energy through better nutrition, movement, and mindset.
- Visualization: Picture yourself energized, focused, and finally thriving, not just surviving.
- Action: Schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward lasting vitality.
3. Non-Profit Fundraising Example
3. Non-Profit Fundraising Example: “Be the Change for Homeless Youth”
- Attention: Tonight, over half a million youth in our country have no place to call home.
- Need: Without immediate intervention, these young lives face cycles of poverty and hardship.
- Satisfaction: Your donation funds shelter, education, and career pathways for at-risk youth.
- Visualization: Imagine a young person gaining stability, education, and self-worth because you chose to act.
- Action: Donate today—change a life forever.
Find more inspiration to be the change you want to see in the world. Uncover the tactics I use to become the best version of myself inspiring others along the way while living with the best intentions for a person’s life. Aspouse to a reading righting life of accomplishment.
4. Sales Pitch Example
4. Sales Pitch Example: “Transform Your Business with Customer-Led Growth”
- Attention: 80% of businesses fail to hear their customers truly—and lose millions because of it.
- Need: Customer disengagement costs revenue, loyalty, and market position.
- Satisfaction: Implementing a customer-led growth strategy ensures clients drive your business decisions, leading to sustainable success.
- Visualization: Picture higher retention rates, increased sales, and a loyal customer base that fuels your growth.
- Action: Schedule a strategy session today and let your customers lead the way.
5. Educational Speech Example
5. Educational Speech Example: “Why Financial Literacy Should Be Taught in Schools”
- Attention: What’s the one skill every student needs but most never learn?
- Need: Young adults enter the world financially unprepared, leading to debt and poor decisions.
- Satisfaction: Integrating financial literacy courses equips students with budgeting, investing, and credit management skills.
- Visualization: Imagine a generation empowered to build wealth and avoid financial pitfalls.
- Action: Support our initiative to make financial literacy a standard in every school curriculum.
6. Environmental Awareness Example
6. Environmental Awareness Example: “Save Our Oceans”
- Attention: Every minute, a garbage truck’s worth of plastic ends up in the ocean.
- Need: Marine ecosystems are dying, affecting global food supply and biodiversity.
- Satisfaction: Switching to sustainable packaging and reducing plastic consumption can reverse this trend.
- Visualization: Envision clean oceans teeming with life sustained for future generations.
- Action: Join our pledge today—commit to reducing single-use plastics.
7. Personal Development Example
7. Personal Development Plan Example: “Unlocking Your Full Potential”
- Attention: Have you ever felt like you’re capable of more—but don’t know how to get there?
- Need: Most people are held back by limiting beliefs and unclear goals.
- Satisfaction: A personalized coaching program identifies roadblocks and provides actionable steps to growth.
- Visualization: Picture yourself living purposefully, achieving goals you once thought unreachable.
- Action: Book a discovery call today and start your transformation through personal development goals for work examples to craft your own.
8. Product Launch Example
8. Product Launch Example: “The Ultimate Productivity App”
- Attention: Ever wish there were more hours in the day?
- Need: Disorganization, distractions, and inefficient systems waste precious time daily.
- Satisfaction: This productivity app streamlines your schedule, integrates tasks, and keeps you focused.
- Visualization: Imagine ending each day ahead of schedule, with less stress and more time for what matters.
- Action: Download the app now and take control of your time.
9. Team Leadership Example
9. Team Leadership Example: “Why Your Team Needs Clear Communication Now”
- Attention: 85% of workplace issues stem from poor communication.
- Need: Without clarity, productivity suffers, and team morale drops.
- Satisfaction: Effective communication strategies align teams, improve collaboration, and drive results.
- Visualization: Picture a team with clear expectations, minimal conflicts, and consistent progress.
- Action: Implement our communication framework today—watch your team thrive.
10. Mental Health Advocacy Example
10. Mental Health Advocacy Example: “Break the Stigma Around Therapy”
- Attention: One in five adults experiences mental health challenges each year, yet many remain silent.
- Need: Stigma prevents people from seeking the help they need.
- Satisfaction: Open conversations and access to therapy services normalize mental wellness.
- Visualization: Imagine a society where mental health support is as accepted as physical healthcare.
- Action: Support mental health awareness programs today and help break the stigma.
Takeaways on Applying These Monroe’s Motivated Sequence Speech Examples
Whether you’re speaking to one person or thousands, the power of Monroe’s Motivated Sequence lies in its ability to move people—emotionally and logically—toward action. These examples of Monroe’s Motivated Sequence outlines show how adaptable the structure is, from sales and leadership to advocacy and personal development.
Mastering this technique allows you to lead confidently, influence effectively, and inspire meaningful change.
Top 10 Commercials Using Monroe’s Motivated Sequence: How Brands Persuade and Inspire Action
By Ryan Zofay – Communications Coach & Motivational Speaker
One of the biggest secrets behind the world’s most compelling advertisements? They’re often built on the classic framework of Monroe’s Motivated Sequence.
As a communications coach and motivational speaker, I’ve studied what grabs people’s attention, connects emotionally, and moves them to act. Time and time again, I’ve seen brands successfully use the 5 steps of Monroe’s Motivated Sequence to craft unforgettable commercials that resonate.
I’ll break down ten iconic commercials using Monroe’s Motivated Sequence in this post. I’ll also share my insights on how you can apply these techniques—whether you’re crafting your marketing campaign, speech, or presentation.
Quick Breakdown: The 5 Steps of Monroe’s Motivated Sequence
- Attention – Hook the audience immediately
- Need – Highlight the problem or pain point
- Satisfaction – Offer the solution
- Visualization – Show the positive outcome (or negative if no action is taken)
- Action – Directly tell the audience what to do next
Top 10 Commercials Using Monroe’s Motivated Sequence
These ten commercials prove just how versatile and practical the 5 steps of Monroe’s Motivated Sequence are. Whether the goal is to inspire, sell, or advocate for change, the sequence taps into attention, emotions, and logic, leading to explicit, decisive action.
Here’s what to take away:
- Attention grabs curiosity.
- Need creates urgency.
- Satisfaction offers the solution.
- Visualization makes the outcome real.
- Action drives behavior.
Apple Computer/iPhone/Tabets/Macs…
1. Apple – “Think Different” Commerical
Attention:
Powerful black-and-white footage of visionaries and rebels.
Need:
People feel the urge to stand out, to not settle for average.
Satisfaction:
Apple positions itself as the brand for those who “Think Different.”
Visualization:
Aligning with Apple means aligning with greatness, creativity, and innovation.
Action:
Subtle call to action: choose Apple, be part of the movement.
Insight:
Monroe’s motivated sequence speech example doesn’t overtly sell—it inspires through association.
2. Nike Sneakers
2. Nike – “Just Do It” Commerical
Attention:
Dynamic, high-energy visuals of athletes pushing limits.
Need:
Everyone faces self-doubt and mental barriers.
Satisfaction:
Nike’s gear and message equip you to push through obstacles.
Visualization:
Picture yourself stronger, faster, unstoppable.
Action:
Buy Nike. Take the first step—just do it.
Tip:
This is a perfect example of Monroe’s motivated sequence outline used to tap into personal empowerment.
3. Always: P&G feminine hygiene brand
3. Always – “Like a Girl”
Attention:
Interviews show people’s biased perceptions of “like a girl.”
Need:
Social stereotypes limit girls’ confidence.
Satisfaction:
The commercial challenges and redefines the phrase.
Visualization:
A world where “like a girl” means strong, capable, and empowered.
Action:
Join the movement to rewrite the narrative.
Insight:
This is a brilliant Monroe’s motivated sequence sample outline rooted in social change messaging.
4. Budweiser Beer
4. Budweiser – “Puppy Love” (Super Bowl Ad)
Attention:
It is a heartwarming story of a puppy and a horse forming an unlikely friendship.
Need:
People crave connection and loyalty.
Satisfaction:
Budweiser symbolizes loyalty, friendship, and tradition.
Visualization:
Feelings of warmth and togetherness when choosing Budweiser.
Action:
Buy Budweiser. Be part of that connection.
Tip:
Emotional storytelling drives the visualization step home here.
5. Dove Soap
5. Dove – “Real Beauty Sketches”
Attention:
Women describe themselves as forensic artists.
Need:
Self-esteem issues and distorted self-image.
Satisfaction:
Dove helps women realize their true beauty.
Visualization:
Imagine viewing yourself through a lens of confidence and acceptance.
Action:
Support Dove’s Real Beauty campaign.
Insight:
Monroe’s motivated sequence speech example uses vulnerability to draw deep emotional engagement.
6. Volkswagen Automobiles
6. Volkswagen – “The Force”
Attention:
A child dressed as Darth Vader tries to use “the Force.”
Need:
Parents want to empower their kids and create joyful moments.
Satisfaction:
Volkswagen’s remote-start feature allows that magical moment.
Visualization:
Picture fun, memorable family moments facilitated by technology.
Action:
Test drive a Volkswagen today.
Tip:
Humor + heart = powerful Monroe’s motivated sequence outline sample.
7. ASPCA – American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
7. ASPCA – “In the Arms of an Angel”
Attention:
Heart-wrenching images of neglected animals.
Need:
Thousands of animals suffer every day without help.
Satisfaction:
ASPCA provides care, shelter, and a second chance.
Visualization:
Imagine giving an animal a new life filled with love.
Action:
Donate today to make a difference.
Insight:
This commercial uses intense emotional visualization to push viewers toward immediate action.
8. Coca-Cola Soda
8. Coca-Cola – “Share a Coke”
Attention:
Bottles featuring people’s names.
Need:
Everyone desires personal connection and recognition.
Satisfaction:
Coke creates a product designed to bring people together.
Visualization:
Picture friends and family sharing smiles over personalized bottles.
Action:
Find your name. Buy a Coke. Share the moment.
Tip:
Simple, clear visualization of positive social experiences.
9. Google Search
9. Google – “Year in Search”
Attention:
Compilation of the year’s most searched topics.
Need:
People seek meaning, solutions, and hope during uncertain times.
Satisfaction:
Google provides answers, connects people, and empowers action.
Visualization:
Imagine a world connected through shared questions and discoveries.
Action:
Continue searching, learning, and exploring through Google.
Insight:
Data-driven storytelling applied to Monroe’s motivated sequence speech format.
10. TOMS Shoes
10. TOMS Shoes – “One for One”
Attention:
Images of children receiving shoes.
Need:
Millions of children worldwide lack proper footwear.
Satisfaction:
TOMS donates a pair of shoes for every purchase.
Visualization:
Visualizing the direct, personal impact of a simple purchase.
Action:
Buy a pair. Give a pair.
Tip:
TOMS perfectly integrates social impact into the satisfaction and visualization steps.
Whether creating your next ad campaign, delivering a powerful speech, or developing a leadership message, understanding these examples of Monroe’s motivated sequence outlines will help you influence, connect, and lead more effectively. Discover more with my VSL landing page and video tactics for winning pitches with any audience.
A Personal Message on Motivation and Action
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: Transformation doesn’t happen by accident. It requires clarity, strategy, and the courage to take the first step. That’s why I’ve dedicated my career to empowering others, helping them unlock their potential and rewrite their stories.
Monroe’s motivated sequence isn’t just a communication tool—it’s a roadmap for real change. If I can use it to turn my life around, so can you.
Want to start your transformation? Craft your won Monroe Motivated Sequence Outline Template, or book a call with me and my team. Whether refining your pitch, growing your business, or leveling up your mindset, you have everything you need to succeed within your reach.
Take Action Now—Your Best Life Awaits.
Resources
Additional Resources
For more insights on effective communication and leadership, consider these resources:
Ryan Zofay’s Success Coach Guide
How to Be the Change You Want to See
Personal Development Workshops
We Level Up’s Addiction Recovery Programs
Career Change without a Degree
