The Desire to Achieve

Often, we describe those who are successful in their fields as having a strong ‘desire to achieve’. This desire and motivation to achieve is more complex than it may seem and yields interesting differences between those who focus on gaining success and those who focus on avoiding failure.

WHY WE SHOULD FOCUS ON SUCCESS, RATHER THAN FEAR FAILURE

People who focus on obtaining success in their lives tend to set more realistic goals for themselves and to choose tasks that are realistically attainable. For example, let’s say Sally wishes to lose weight. She may say, ‘I plan to lose 4 kg in two weeks.’ She will then

An enthusiastic attitude is fundamental for self-fulfilment and achievement.

contact a personal trainer to map out a plan to achieve this goal.

Interestingly though, studies have found that those who are most concerned about avoiding failure tend to set themselves more unrealistic goals. Sally also has the option to say, ‘I will lose 40 kg in two weeks’. Although she may have a strong degree of motivation when she first begins her exercise regime, she is more likely to quickly burn out and lose interest in the pursuit of her weight loss goal.

ACCEPTING RESPONSIBILITY

Another important factor for determining success is the degree to which a person feels responsible for the outcome, as opposed to diverting responsibility and/or blaming others. Leaders of industry tend to accept responsibility for their actions as opposed to blaming other factors for their situation and having a ‘there’s no hope’ approach.

Back to our weight loss example, the ‘successful’ Sally may say, ‘I eat way too much junk food. It’s time for me to cut down on the snacks. I know I have a very busy lifestyle and it can be a challenge disciplining myself to eat healthier, but it’s something that I have to do to improve my health.’ On the other hand, the ‘unsuccessful’ Sally may say, ‘All of my family and friends eat snacks and there is no way to get around that. Plus I work a lot and there simply isn’t any other way for me to eat properly.’

DON’T FEAR JUDGEMENT

When it comes to achievement motives in women, historical studies tend to describe stereotypical views of the ‘woman’s place.’ One such theory has proposed that achievement-oriented women fear negative consequences such as being labelled ‘unfeminine’ or being socially rejected. Although this phenomenon has been prevalent for decades, it is constantly being challenged. Despite incredible progress and the success of many women in the workplace, the myth lingers on. To be successful, it is important to find ways of overcoming these fears and to confidently pursue one’s goals.

SO WHAT IS REQUIRED TO INSPIRE CHANGE AND INCREASE MOTIVATION?

One major contributing factor is our thoughts. An enthusiastic attitude or ‘emotional drive’, is fundamental for self-fulfilment and achievement. Enthusiasm guides us to positive thoughts and actions, creates positive energy that improves our relationships with others, increases our willingness to be open to new ideas and heightens our motivation to embrace new challenges. Conversely, feelings of fatigue or failure can be caused by worry, frustration and resentment.

Our successful Sally, although tired from a workout, will practice improving her positive mindset and see the benefits of exercise, as challenging or dull a regular routine can sometimes feel. This will then have compound

benefits for her because the more positive her approach is, the healthier she will become and the healthier she becomes, the more energy and enthusiasm she can have throughout her day. On the flip side, our unsuccessful Sally may feel that there’s no point in exercise because it’s too tiring and inconvenient for her schedule. This will have a negative compound effect. As she continues to lose her fitness, the more prone she can become to stress and sickness and the more negative her outlook on life may become.

We can influence future outcomes with a positive and enthusiastic approach to the opportunities of the present. Over time, guilt, fear and worry can be replaced with confidence and optimism.

Enthusiasm is more than just striving for success in the workplace. It is essential for the whole of life and living.

Enthusiasm is a priceless commodity that should certainly be developed.

Note that the advice given is general in nature – please consult A life logic or your preferred specialist for specific advice for your given situation.

Ruane J. Lipke is a registered Brisbane psychologist and a member of the Australian Psychological Society (MAPS). Ruane’s counselling practice ‘A Life Logic’ offers psychology and counselling advice for a range of modern day challenges including clinical, developmental, emotional, educational and relationship concerns. To learn more about Ruane’s approach to psychology and counselling, visit the ‘A Life

Logic’ website. To schedule a consultation and discuss your own journey to success, contact Ruane here.