Stimulus. Life is stimulating. We are driven by two stimuli: pain and pleasure. For example, when we want to do something, but instead procrastinate we are choosing the pain of not completing the task now as less than the pain of taking action. When we procrastinate, we optimize for the short term. It’s something we all need to work on because it’s part of human nature.
What can we do?
Well, we can apply the other stimulus, pleasure to get us up and moving. When we associate pleasure with having completed the task, then we are almost certain to take action in the present. For example, I use meals to associate positive feelings with the people that I love (by sharing a meal), and when I eat alone I focus on goals and what I want to achieve. Furthermore, when I have accomplished something that brings me closer to my goals, like going to the gym, I reward myself and focus on the life I am creating. Picturing myself in a healthier body and the life that comes with having made physical improvements. I sell myself the lifestyle that comes with physical fitness, and you can too!
When we choose to optimize for the long term, then we can actually achieve the life that we dream. Seize the day to achieve your fullest potential!