Einstein said the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. People think that just by “wishing” for something a miracle will swoop down and change their life. But there is a big difference between a goal and a wish. A Buddhist Monk once said, “To know and not to do is not yet to know.”
So what stops someone from doing instead of wishing? I will argue that 90% of us are more afraid of success than we are afraid of failure. If you look at your life you’ve probably tried a lot of things you were afraid of (for example: moving to a new place, dating, starting a new career, competing in sports, writing, public speaking etc.) So being afraid is natural. However, some people will set up road blocks to their success because they know they that success will change their lives and that scares the crap out of them.
Let me repeat that: People set up road blocks to their own success, especially when they know they can have it, because the idea of changing their lives scares them. Success guarantees change, whereas failure just means you get a big pat on the back for trying but nothing has to change and you never experience the success you deserve.
Stop the Insanity.
- What can you do differently this time? You’re going to want to focus on what your goals are and think about what you can do differently. Find other people with similar goals and find out what is different about their approach.
- Stop Worrying, Start Smiling. Do you come up with 100 reasons why something might go wrong? That’s a train wreck waiting to happen. Sit down and list 100 reasons how your goal might come to you easily, fast, and harmoniously. Trust me, this exercise is awesome!
- Face the Fear. Now make a list of 10 things the success will bring you that scares you. Get in touch with your subconsious actions. What is it about success that really makes you nervous? Facing this fear might help clear up a lot of road blocks.