The Problem of Instant Gratification
I have observed something important, a common phenomenon in our society: most people give up when they stop receiving positive feedback. When things don't go according to plan, when we face criticism or setbacks, it can be tempting to throw in the towel and give up. But those who continue to show up when there is no positive validation are often the ones who succeed.
The truth is, success is rarely a straight line. It is often a winding, difficult path, filled with obstacles and setbacks. And when we face those obstacles and setbacks, it's easy to become discouraged and disheartened. We begin to question our abilities, doubt our worth, and wonder if we are on the right path.
Success is incremental. It is slow mostly, and sometimes doesn’t feel like our perfect idea of success. This disparity between expectation and reality causes many of us to give up.
However, those who continue to show up, day after day, in the face of adversity, are the ones who ultimately succeed. They understand that success is not just about talent or skill; it's about resilience, perseverance, and grit.
When we stop receiving positive feedback, it's easy to believe that we're not making progress, that our efforts are in vain. But the truth is, progress is not always visible. Sometimes, the most important progress is happening beneath the surface, in the form of personal growth and development.
Moreover, those who continue to show up when there is no positive validation are often the ones who are most committed to their goals and their vision. They are not motivated by external validation or recognition; they are driven by an inner sense of purpose and passion. They do not care who is watching nor how many. They care about the the work, not the outcomes of the work.
And because most people only care about the outcomes, most people give up when they stop receiving positive feedback. It has been my experience that those who continue to show up when there is no positive validation are often the ones who succeed.
Success is not just about talent or skill; it's about resilience, perseverance, and grit, as I said.
So, the next time you face criticism or setbacks, or you feel like you’re getting nowhere remember why you’re doing what you’re doing. Do you love the work or do you just want validation. Your answer to this question is important, and will predict your level of success. Progress is not always visible, and that the most important progress happens when no one seems to care. If you can keep going when no one cares, you’ll be fine. Keep showing up, day after day, and trust that you’re on your path.