As logical as you think you are, most of our decisions are made purely out of emotion.
Take a look at most commercials, advertisements and retail stores/eateries...
It's simple: we see something that appeals to us, we buy it.
All great brands know if you have a nice design (packaging), you significantly increase your sales.
Take for instance Costco. The reason they don't label their aisles (and frequently move around products) is because they're hoping you'll make extra "emotional buys" that you didn't plan on.
So as a consumer, how do you counter your mortal ways?
Wait.
Yes, that simple. The next time you're on Amazon searching, put items on your wish list instead of purchasing them right away. I bet in a week you'll forget what you saw. If you remember, buy it then.
Emotion doesn't wait for logic, unless you command it to.
Examine the last time you lost your temper. Was there really a good reason to blow your lid? (most of the time, no.)
If you pause, leave the situation briefly, then return and you'll probably respond differently.
That's why marketing is geared toward penetrating your heart more than your mind. Brands prey on filling your emotional needs.
We think we make decisions with our brains, but usually that's not the case.
I'm not suggesting you become a robot, just be more mindful of how you make your decisions.
Make sure the "cost" doesn't outweigh the verdict.
"Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me."
That statement has never been more false than now...
Millennials are great at taking risks, following their dreams and are by far the most tech-savvy generation in history. The flip side is how they deal with adversity (a.k.a. not getting your way).
Take for instance the show X Factor. Contestants arrive with hopes of being the next superstar, but sometimes forget they are in a performance based competition. The best judges provide constructive feedback, yet the audience boos while the participants disagree or respond defensively.
Newsflash: you're not the best. All your dreams won't be fulfilled. You're not as good as you think you are.
Learn to deal with failure. Teach yourself how to cope when adversity hits. Work hard on implementing a solution.
Today, there's an emphasis on leadership skills, but how much of that is for notoriety? Leadership is not about you. It's about guiding and developing others. Everyone can't lead at the same time. Look around...no one is following.
Never has coaching been more important than now. Regardless if it's for personal or professional help, that extra set of eyes and ears provides fresh perspective, objective assessment and accountability for progress. Guiding talent in the right direction is what produces victory. So get on the right path and hire a coach!
