I have always believed that life is too SHORT for rows and disagreements. Even if I THINK I'm RIGHT, I would prefer to apologize and remain FRIENDS rather than win and be an ENEMY.
Don't WORRY about motivation. Motivation is fickle. It comes and goes. It is unreliable - and when you are COUNTING on motivation to GET your GOALS accomplished, you will likely fall short.
I have a short, home-made armguard because I don't like the regular ONES. I'd wear that on a lively PITCH. I don't use a chest guard because I FIND it too restrictive.