Suppose I told you that it was possible to teach a pigeon to bowl. It sounds pretty farfetched doesn’t it? In fact, B.F. Skinner proved it in 1943 by teaching pigeons to bowl by rewarding them through a series of steps until they eventually learned to bowl. Whether it’s animal or human, rewarding the desired behavior is called “positive reinforcement.” There is also “negative reinforcement” meaning that the behaviors we don’t like can also be reinforced.
Unfortunately, far too many of us spend a considerable amount of our time living in an internal world of negativity. Only occasionally do we “peek” our heads out—for a second or two, to allow in a little bit of pleasure. Is it any wonder then, why so many of us are struck in old self defeating patterns of behavior because of our negative reinforcement ways of thinking and acting?
One of the best ways to insure your success is to reward yourself for each step—for each accomplishment toward achieving your goals. Take the time to really acknowledge each step in the process no matter how great, how small, or how insignificant. The positive reinforcement you give yourself will inspire, motivate, and propel you to accomplishing your ultimate goals.
Successful people stay focused on “possibilities” rather than “negativity.” Today, and every day, take the time to acknowledge and reward yourself for your successes in all areas of your life.
