Why most of our New Years‘Resolutions will not become reality?
You may know this: At the beginning of the New Year we have all kinds of ideas what we want to do better, do differently. We want to lose weight, stop smoking, and exercise more, want to spend more time with the family…. But most of the time it will just stay a good intention. Why is it this way?
The international psychological research has been engaged in this question since decades and has found some answers published in many empirical studies. The most important result is that there are many reasons which combine and enhance each other and result in the fact that resolutions stay just resolutions.
“Mind” and “belly” need to complement each other
When there is an intention and a goal, it is a question of motivation whether one really will tackle it. But how does motivation come about in situations when it is not that easy to implement something? Motivation is fueled by two sources: usually called “mind” for conscious goals and “belly”, the unconscious motives which are partly congenital and hard to change.
The central fact is that conscious resolutions will only be realized if “mind” and “belly” complement each other. Only then will there be an overlap of these two motivational systems and a mutual enhancement. And this is the only way to stick to your course when things get rough, and to continue until you have reached your goal.
“Mind-goals” in leadership
This principle is also valid in the context of leadership. Motivation is a central topic here. But in the context of the demands for performing, these goals are mostly just “mind-goals”. And the result is the same as with New Year’s resolutions: goals will not be reached. So, what can be done to improve the situation, to enhance the chance for reaching the goals?
The most important starting point in these two motivational systems:
- “Mind”: You have to chose and formulate your goals in such a way, that they are clear, motivating, measurable and realistic. This is important and relatively easy to manage.
- “Belly”: We all have unconscious motives which influence our goals and they are a much bigger challenge. How can we manage to become conscious of these motives and imply them into the goals we want to achieve?
The good news is: It is possible!
What is needed is a self-reflecting capacity, self-competence and a professional view from the outside to give you feedback. And it can also be supported by a motivational test which will bring you a lot of information and insights. Thus you can get clarity about your (unconscious) motives and you will be able to choose your goals in a way where “mind” and “belly” fit together.
But most of all: You will become a much better leader when you are able to transfer this competence in your personnel management.
Are you curious to learn more? Join us on March the 17th in our leadership-impulse-seminar: “Motivierend Führen” (in German). Here you can find more Informations.
