When we do things, especially related to work or a vocation, we expect to receive a reward, to be paid for our work. Sometimes the pay or reward can be very reinforcing, can motivate us to do even more of what we are wanting to create or develop. The more we receive a reward the more we want to do, to work towards our dream.
However, the real work for our initial commitment comes when we are not receiving the reward, when there is no pay off. What do we do when the reward or payoff does not meet the expectation that we have? For some, their motivation will lesson when there is no or little pay off. The motivation may lesson even to the point of that person thinking about giving up, giving up the dream.
With my dream I continue to face this particular situation every morning upon rising. While the payoff that I expect is simply not there at the moment, I work hard at staying committed to my dream. Some mornings this work is more difficult than it is on other mornings. While the payoff or reward is important, staying focused on why I created the dream is the most important thing that I have to stay present to.
The why of my dream has to do with me being of service to others. Dan Millman said it best in the Peaceful Warrior when he said that being of service to others is the highest purpose there is for us. My dream has to do with me being of service to others with my relaxation music and counseling services. Staying present to the real purpose will allow me to stay committed to my dream even in the face of no payoff.
Dr Harry Henshaw
