Motivation, Rocking Chairs, an Deathbeds
ByWe humans are keenly motivated my two primary experiences, the first is pain and the other is pleasure. So that is to say that each and every one of us are motivated by our daily experiences of pain as well as or experiences of pleasure. However each of us are motivated at different pain/pleasure ratios – some are motivated more by pain, others are more motivated by pleasure while still others react best to a balance of pain and pleasure.
Now I am not just talking about the physical sensation of pain or pleasure but we are motivated by the emotional one as well. Think about it for a moment would you be more motivated to perform by the vision of coming in first place in a competitive sport (pleasure) or are you motivated more to avoid the disappointing your coach and fellow team mates (pain)?
Whichever one it is, or whatever ratio of the two works best for you knowing that ‘recipe’ for motivation is key to getting you through those tougher times when that motivation can be the tipping point of your success.
In my book “Write Your Success Story” I take readers through an exercise where they imagine themselves 10, 20 or more years from now – in their golden years. Sitting on the front porch relaxing in a rocking chair, sharing stories of their live with their children, grandchildren and/or other loved ones.
I find this to be more of a pleasure focused exercise as people with enjoy the view of themselves having lived a fulfilling life and passing their insights on to those sitting on the porch with them. Telling them about all the great things they had accomplished, sharing the drama of their years and imparting to those around them some gems of those experiences – motivating their loved ones via their story and wisdom.
Now for my more pain motivated readers let me share with you a similar exercise that I find is a bit more pain focused. Rather than envisioning yourself sitting on the porch in a rocking chair, picture yourself literally laying on your deathbed. You time waning, and your life nearing its end. Now with that picture in mind, have your loved ones stop by to talk with you one by one. What wisdom would you share with them? What things would you tell them knowing that you will never see them again? What words of caring, apology, regret or encouragement would you leave them with?
If you are like me, these two exercises bring about completely different yet very powerful and motivating results. I would encourage you to sit down tonight and run through each of these exercises. Then write down your insights, make note of the things you learn about yourself and what you are motivated to do – from the rocking chair and what you feel and are motivated to share with others from your deathbed exercise. Whether you are motivated by your Rocking Chair or your Death Bed – I am sure you will be glad you did!
Think Successfully & Take Action!
Tracy Brinkmann
One of Todays TOP Motivated Coaches & Author of Success Atlas Programs
