Everybody chases something. The human condition is to move away from pain and toward gain. That’s what we do in every decision we make. The pain of never being cool growing up may have you buying a Harley-Davidson. The perceived joy of making more money may have you moving your family across the country for a new job. The human race is a strange breed, defaulting to emotion when not consciously in tune with decision making. We chase feelings. We chase emotion. Don’t believe me? When the waitress asks if you want a salad or tater tots with your sandwich, which do you want? You’re are lying to yourself if you say the salad. You may be smart enough to know you should have the salad, but most want the tater tots. Have you actually had a tater tot? Pure Gold. Pride, accomplishment, camaraderie, belongingness, trust, friendship, and love all start with being human. I’m pretty sure no giraffe is walking the Serengeti wondering if she is “enough” for her tribe.
Why do we praise in public and reprimand in private? Because we want to fit in, not feeling shamed in a group. Why is social media such a thing? Because it allows an immediate feeling of belongingness and “I matter” amongst others. Unfortunately, the “like” on your favorite app is fleeting, immediately requiring another “like” to replace it, and the cycle continues. The real joy lies in actual face-to-face human engagement, which is what every business has in common.
But have you ever noticed how your Blue changes as either time goes by or as you acquire the pieces in your life you were chasing? It’s as if someone simply moved the goalposts and you’re left with a brand-new chase.
I’m not a sales trainer, I’m a human trainer, and humans are hilarious. Understand the framework of being human, and you can get anyone to do anything you want them to do. I like to get to that framework through stories, pictures, and pointing out the obvious. “Education” comes from the Latin word “Educo,” which means “to pull from.” Most people think it means to push towards, as in to bomb people with information. I believe the answers are already in your head; I love showing people how to put the puzzle pieces together.
Final thought – Ever think that maybe the joy is in the chase itself? Hmmm..