Whether I like it or not, often when I enter into trying to achieve a goal, along the way I continue to periodically adopt a ‘meta’ perspective, used to judge myself and my progress using the most unhelpful references. In fact, in retrospect, it seems rather bizarre that anyone would do this. Yet, I see people fall prey to it all the time:

– A person trying to lose weight lost an impressive 15kg but still feels bad because his weight continues to be above average.
– A girl learning to speak Spanish has improved her skills considerably, yet is discouraged with her progress because her classmates are learning faster.
– A man shot multiple times is miraculously able to walk again, yet feels so bad about not being as agile as before, that it sends him into the sickening behaviour of compulsively ordering rocks of the internet (link).

All of the examples above have something in common. In each, the subject improved him/herself and got closer to his/her goal. YET, they do not enjoy the psychological reward that should accompany their achievement: dopamine. Without it, it is very hard, if not impossible(!) to persevere and continue our journey towards a goal (Bergland, 2011). Indeed, many people in one of the situations above give up. And from gradually moving (albeit slowly) towards their goals, they now stand still…

“Be not afraid of moving slowly. Be afraid of standing still.” – Chinese Proverb

The writer of this ancient quote therefore hit the nail on the head when saying we have to focus on the progress that we make, however small.

Nonetheless, in practice this is easier said than done. If it is not ourself, it is society that pushes you to compare yourself with others.

Therefore I would to know of YOU, what are some things you can think of to increase dopamine release and not fall into this self deprecating trap? Please leave your reply in the comments!

References
Bergland, C. (2011). The Neuroscience of Perseverance. [online] Psychology Today. Available at: https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-athletes-way/201112/the-neuroscience-perseverance [Accessed 27 Mar. 2016].