I strongly believe in doing what is right. But, sometimes I don’t quite have the motivation to do it, and give into whatever I feel like doing that isn’t exactly right.
I’ve recently realized a strong personal motivational factor — that is, doing what you’re proud of. The trick is in the approach, though. Imagine that, whatever you’re doing at that moment, it is being recorded in someone’s blog and is stuck on-line somewhere. Pictures, chat history, etc. If this happened, would you find it shameful or happy? The next time you reach for a bowl of ice cream, imagine everyone hearing about how you pigged out on ice cream. Seems less appealing, right?
Shame can be a powerful motivating factor, but it can be used as a decision-making device. Sometimes that bowl of ice cream doesn’t seem too bad; heck, one bowl wont hurt. Sleeping with your coworker won’t hurt, as long as your wife won’t find out. But simple shame can keep you from actually doing it. More, if you live your life so that all your actions are actions to be proud of, you can be honest with yourself and others. A simple bit of honesty can take a huge weight off your shoulders.
