We usually think of motivation as being about Desire or Want Power or Will Power and all those are or can be significant components. But there are generally many paths up the mountain and mental contrasting is an interesting motivational method.

Mental contrasting is a multi-step process: 1) Determine where you are, 2) Determine where you want to be, 3) Determine what stands in your way, obstacles, challenges, and 4) Contrast where you are and where you want to be. Picture yourself there already; imagine it has come true.

Your brain does not like conflict and your subconscious automatically seeks resolution. Create a compelling story in your mind of your journey to your desired future that engages your emotions and imagination. You’ve created a beacon in your mind, a powerful pattern of signaling, forging a forceful link between the present and an ideal future.

Closing Quotes:

“The joint elaboration of the future and present reality makes both simultaneously accessible and links them together in the sense that reality stands in the way of realizing the desired future.” – Gabriele Oettingen

“Here is where we are; Here is where we want to go. The surprising thing, from a scientific point of view; is how responsive we are to this pattern of signaling.” – The Culture Code: The Secrets of Highly Successful Groups

“Think little goals and expect little achievements. Think big goals and win big success.” – David J. Schwartz

As always, I share what I most want and need to learn. – Nathan S. Collier