The Problem, The Process, The Prize
It is no secret that intentional moments of self-reflection throughout your day can help you gain understanding, clarity and direction. With that said, I challenge you to take at least 20-30 minutes to reflect on these questions and give yourself some honest answers.
In most circumstances, do you tend to focus more on the Problem, the Process, or the Prize? Before answering, I encourage you to resist the urge to render the right answers and make your best attempt at giving your truest answers.
Let’s take a look at these three definitions for some clarity.
Problem: something that is difficult to deal with: something that is a source of trouble, worry and other unwelcome outcomes.
Process: a series of actions that produce something or that lead to a particular result.
Prize: a thing given as a reward to the winner of a competition or in recognition of an
outstanding achievement
Back to questions;
Do you tend to focus on the things that are difficult to deal with and the things that are a source of trouble, worry, and other unwelcome outcomes?
The Problem
Do you tend to focus on the series of actions that produce or lead to results?
The Process
Do you tend to focus on the rewards that are in recognition of an outstanding achievement?
The Prize
Here’s another question; Which one of the three are you more prone to talk about while in casual conversation with a trusted friend?
I know answers will vary greatly depending on the person, their situation, their perspective and context. Regardless of how you answer these questions, there are some truths about Problems, Processes and Prizes that are undeniable and extremely helpful, once understood.
Truth #1
Problems and Prizes are incapable of creating the results you desire. They can certainly motivate you toward results, but neither can generate the actual results. In other words, by definition, problems and prizes motivate and processes generate (results).
Problems and Prizes can make you aware of your need for change.
Processes can produce the change you need.
Truth #2
A focus on most problems or prizes is ultimately a focus on self.
A focus on the process will inevitably require some denial of self.
Great prizes can lead to happiness.
Great processes can lead to wholeness.
Truth #3
When you learn to be content with your body’s natural reward system and resist becoming over-dependent on external rewards and stimuli, you will have reached a level of contentment and maybe fulfillment that few people experience.
If your focus is to escape Problems and pursue Prizes, you may actually be in a no-win situation.
Life is one massive process, which includes problems and prizes that activate, motivate, and stimulate you along the way. They nudge you out of that comfort zone.
Perhaps this is the reason people make great sacrifices to continue in an occupation where they enjoy the Process of what they do. They not only appreciate the Problems they overcome and the Prizes they receive, but more importantly, they are committed and sold out to the Processes that make it all possible.
The Problem, The Process, The Prize
Where's Your Focus?
I am interested in hearing your comments. Please share how you see it or how you do it.
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