Wellness 2.0: Who Do You Want To Be?
Hidden Brain
Deep Dive
Why do many people feel stuck despite having access to abundant advice?
Many people feel stuck because they pursue goals misaligned with their deepest values and preferences. External advice often focuses on skills like planning and perseverance but fails to address whether the goals themselves resonate with an individual's true desires.
What is the main challenge in setting meaningful life goals according to Ken Sheldon?
The main challenge is figuring out where you want to go, not just how to get there. People often set goals based on external influences like societal expectations or parental pressure, rather than aligning them with their intrinsic values and desires.
How does intrinsic motivation differ from extrinsic motivation?
Intrinsic motivation involves doing something because it is inherently rewarding or enjoyable, while extrinsic motivation is driven by external rewards like money, status, or approval. Intrinsic motivation is more sustainable and fulfilling, whereas extrinsic motivation can undermine long-term interest and satisfaction.
What did Ken Sheldon's study on law students reveal about their well-being?
The study found that law students' well-being plummeted dramatically over their three-year career, with depression levels rising significantly. High-performing students initially motivated by idealism often shifted toward self-centered motivations like status and grades, leading to dissatisfaction.
What is the concept of self-concordance in Ken Sheldon's research?
Self-concordance refers to aligning one's goals with both conscious and non-conscious inclinations and values. It involves pursuing goals that resonate deeply with one's true self, rather than following external pressures or societal expectations.
How does mindfulness meditation help in discovering what one truly wants?
Mindfulness meditation helps by allowing individuals to notice subtle signals from their non-conscious mind. By staying present and observing thoughts without judgment, people can uncover deeper desires and values that may have been suppressed or overlooked.
What is the role of identified motivation when intrinsic motivation wanes?
Identified motivation replaces intrinsic motivation when an activity becomes less enjoyable but remains meaningful. It involves continuing an activity because it aligns with one's values and sense of purpose, even if it is no longer inherently fun or interesting.
What did Ken Sheldon's study on varsity athletes reveal about external incentives?
The study found that varsity athletes, who received external incentives like scholarships, were less interested in their sport decades later compared to walk-ons who played for fun. External rewards undermined their intrinsic motivation, making them feel controlled and less connected to the activity.
What is the four-stage process of creativity that Ken Sheldon applies to discovering personal goals?
The four stages are preparation (asking questions), incubation (letting the non-conscious mind work), illumination (aha moments), and verification (testing the idea). This process helps individuals uncover deeper desires by engaging both conscious and non-conscious aspects of the mind.
How does societal pressure influence the goals people pursue?
Societal pressure often pushes people toward goals like wealth, status, and power, which are culturally valued but may not align with their intrinsic desires. This can lead to dissatisfaction, as individuals prioritize external rewards over personal fulfillment.
- Many sources of advice exist, yet many feel stuck.
- Goals misaligned with values lead to dissatisfaction.
- The author's experience with a band illustrates the challenges of pursuing misaligned goals.