In today’s world, it is common for people to receive rewards for normal or unhealthy human behavior, such as binge-watching TV shows, overeating junk food, or procrastinating. While these behaviors may seem harmless, they can lead to a lack of motivation and a sense of complacency that prevents people from reaching their full potential. In contrast, setting higher expectations for ourselves and challenging ourselves to achieve greater things can lead to personal growth, increased self-esteem, and a greater sense of purpose.

When we reward normal or unhealthy behavior, we send a message that mediocrity is acceptable. This can lead to a lack of motivation and a sense of complacency that prevents people from reaching their full potential. For example, if a student receives a reward for turning in their homework late, they may become less motivated to turn their assignments in on time in the future.

Moreover, when we reward unhealthy behavior, we contribute to a culture of instant gratification that can be detrimental to our health and well-being. For example, if we reward ourselves with sugary snacks after a long day at work, we are reinforcing the idea that food is a reward and that unhealthy eating habits are acceptable.

On the other hand, setting higher expectations for ourselves and challenging ourselves to achieve greater things can lead to personal growth and a greater sense of purpose. When we challenge ourselves, we are forced to step outside of our comfort zones and face our fears. This can help us develop new skills and abilities that we never knew we had. Moreover, when we achieve our goals, we experience a sense of pride and accomplishment that can boost our self-esteem and motivation.

In conclusion, it is important to be mindful of the rewards we give ourselves and others. While it may be tempting to reward ourselves for normal or unhealthy behavior, doing so can lead to a lack of motivation and a sense of complacency. Instead, we should set higher expectations for ourselves and challenge ourselves to achieve greater things. By doing so, we can experience personal growth, increased self-esteem, and a greater sense of purpose.