What gets you out of bed in the morning?
What gets you out of bed in the morning?
Each morning we wake up to a brand-new day, each of us with a special reason that gets us moving to start the day. And on a cold, rainy or snowy Monday morning, this often isn’t the easiest of things to do.
We can think about these motivations, or reasons, in two ways: the “small reason” and the “big reason.” The small reason is often rooted in self-preservation and personal gain, formed during our early years as children; a shield against life’s uncertainties. The big reason, on the other hand, emerges as we grow, driven by a desire to contribute to something greater than ourselves. Understanding these motivations and how they relate are essential to unlocking our fullest potential.
The Little Reason: A Childhood Protector
The little reason often has its origins in childhood. It’s that voice inside us that seeks comfort, safety, and security. It’s the desire for financial stability, the need for approval, or the avoidance of failure and rejection. These motivations were necessary when we were younger, helping us navigate a world that seemed vast and unpredictable.
For many, the little reason manifests as the pursuit of money, status, or material possessions. It’s the part of us that craves a steady paycheck, a safe home, and the approval of others. These needs are valid and essential; they ensure our survival and provide a foundation upon which we can build our lives. However, if we let these small reasons dominate our decisions, they can become tethers that hold us back from achieving our larger goals and biggest dreams.
The Big Reason: A Purpose Beyond Self
As we grow older and gain more life experience, we start to see beyond our immediate needs and desires. We begin to understand the impact we can have on the world around us. This is where the big reason comes into play. It’s the drive to make a difference, to leave a legacy, and to contribute to something larger than ourselves.
The big reason often involves our community, society, or even the world. It’s the motivation to improve lives, to share knowledge, to foster connections, and to create positive change. This reason transcends personal gain and focuses on collective well-being. When we tap into our big reason, we experience a profound sense of fulfillment and purpose.
The Conflict Between the Little and Big Reasons
While both reasons are important, the little reason can sometimes hold us back from pursuing our big reason. The fear of financial instability, the need for security, and the desire for approval can prevent us from taking risks and stepping outside our comfort zones. These fears, while understandable, can be paralyzing if we don’t recognize and address them.
To overcome this conflict, we need to understand our little reasons and where they come from. Reflecting on our childhood experiences, identifying our fears, and acknowledging our needs can help us see why we might be holding ourselves back. By bringing these motivations to light, we can start to loosen their grip and make room for our big reasons to grow and flourish.
Balancing the Little and Big Reasons
Achieving a balance between our little and big reasons is key to living a fulfilling life. This doesn’t mean we should ignore our need for security and comfort; rather, we should integrate these needs into our larger goals. For example, financial stability can be a means to support our efforts to contribute to our community. The approval we seek can be redirected toward gaining support for our larger mission.
Embracing Growth and Contribution
Ultimately, our big reason is about growth. When we focus on making a positive impact, we expand our horizons and develop new skills and perspectives. We become more resilient, empathetic, and innovative. By giving ourselves to a larger purpose, we not only improve the world around us, but also greatly enrich our own lives.
A Call to Action
So, what gets you out of bed in the morning?
Is it the pursuit of personal comfort and security, or is it the desire to make a meaningful impact?
By understanding and balancing our “little” and “big” reasons, we can free ourselves from the constraints of self-preservation and embrace a life of greater purpose and contribution.
So take a moment to reflect on your motivations. Identify your little reasons and consider how they might be holding you back. Then, tap into your big reason and let it guide your actions. In doing so, you’ll find a deeper sense of fulfillment and a greater connection to the world around you.
-Jack