Our Anticipation Drives Us
Jessalyn Hutto
Unpleasant tasks are often made easier by the knowledge of a coming reward. For instance, visions of a diaper-free life can motivate a young mother in the midst of the difficult and often discouraging days of potty training. Families who are working diligently to get out of debt can make all kinds of painful sacrifices as they envision a future free of payments and financial stress. Work hours at the office seem to go by quicker as the diligent employee remembers the exciting vacation he has planned and worked so hard for.
Yes, anticipation can be a great motivator; even the anticipation of something as simple as a morning cup of coffee. Every night I set my coffee machine in preparation for the coming morning. As my alarm clock goes off–or as is more often the case, when one of my children wakes me up–the knowledge that a warm cup of coffee with hazelnut flavored cream awaits me, makes the unpleasant thought of leaving my soft and cozy bed drastically more appealing. The anticipation of a sweet mug of caffeine motivates me to tear the blankets away and begin my day...
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