Sometimes we don’t even realize why we do the things we do. It might be a cope, a negative response to something we experienced and that habit becomes a part of our ‘DNA’. Sometimes the cope might have a more productive outcome. So how many of our habits are born from a negative response? Does it matter?
Maybe to some people it doesn’t. I think in the long tail it does. In the short run, the habit might help us to move forward and past the negative experience. It might be just a bandaid to get us through the day. But in the long run, the negative feeling becomes the motivation and force behind our actions. Maybe it’s a feeling of inadequacy, scarcity, jealousy, insecurity, dependency or anger. Now those feelings become the driver for much of what we do and how we shape our lives.
Often those negative feelings can push someone to high places of achievement and accomplishments but I think the longterm outlook is to get on “clean” fuel – intention, purpose, service, compassion, humility.
Some people believe you need that edge to compete, win and succeed. I believe you don’t. It might not be easier to find that place but once you do, it is easier. Life is easier. Balance is easier. Success and fulfillment are easier.
Sustainable creative output from a place of constant energy and flow.