How to Think Bigger: Aim Higher, Get More Motivated, and Accomplish Big Things

by Martin Meadows

However, a study conducted on entrepreneurs11 suggests that it’s the motive of making money and not the money itself that affects subjective well-being negatively.

When people want to make money because they want to keep up with the Joneses, have more power, show off, or overcome self-doubt, that’s when their well-being is affected negatively. If you want to make money to help your parents, take care of your family, or help those in need, it won’t affect your well-being negatively.

If you already have a vision that draws from intrinsic motivators, consider adding prosocial motivation.

The side that stands in your way when you want to achieve big goals is the chimp, the primal part of the brain that makes decisions based on emotions. One of the things your chimp loves the most is safety.

Focus on the outcomes that you want and find the easiest way to them with least effort, least sacrifice, and most pleasure.

Concentrate on what produces extraordinary results without extraordinary effort.

Make it your regular habit to go outside (ideally somewhere in nature, away from other people) and spend an hour or so with your thoughts alone. By putting some distance between you and the rapid-moving world, you’ll be able to focus more on the big picture and less on the small details that don’t matter.

Various sports, and most notably extreme sports and any other activities with perceived high risk and challenge, are perfect to get your mind off work.