We all know we can read about inspirational people and feel uplifted.
But did you know that doing this can sometimes make you feel LESS motivated?
Here’s why…
While it can be useful to draw inspiration from extraordinary individuals, research shows we draw more inspiration from reading, seeing, or thinking about a type of person rather than a one-off ‘outlier’.
We become cleverer (in tests) if we see photos of ‘clever-looking people’ rather than, say, a picture of a ‘one-off genius’ like Einstein.
So when you’re seeking inspiration, think of some large groups of inspirational people. People like…
Roman legions who completed more than one-and-a-half marathons a day carrying more than half their body weight in equipment.
The 30,000 rowers employed by Athens who could all exceed the achievements of modern oarsmen.
Ancient Australian aboriginals who threw hardwood spears 110 meters or more (the current world javelin record is 98.48m) (3).
Most people in history who have had to survive without healthcare, social security, or modern medicine.
Most people in history who have had to educate themselves if they wanted to improve.
That puts it all in context doesn’t it?
Now, get back to it.
To your stellar success,
Mark Tyrrell
Co-founder, Uncommon Knowledge / For SelfHypnosisUSA
Author of 10 Steps to a Stellar Success Mindset
