We are the generation of having it easy; the generation of instant gratification, automation and procrastination. We’ve been handed so much, and have access to 10x the resources of our parents: Why are so many of us left unfulfilled? This is part 1 of a serious I will be writing on this issue, with a strong focus on finding unstoppable motivation, uncovering our burning desires and working towards fulfillment.

There are so many stories of amazing individuals who have come from nothing and done so much with their lives. I’m inspired by guys like Stallone who were starving but refused to get a job because he knew if he did life would be comfortable and he’d lose his desire and would give up on his dream of being an actor.All the stories of the strength that comes to a Mother with a broken back carrying her child up a cliff to a father growing his income 1000% the year his first child is born. These outstanding individuals who in moments or desperation found strength and went on to greatness.

What happens if you don’t have a moment of desperation? What if life is just “good” and your credit limit allows to you to never miss a utility bill?

I had this idea last summer of creating an organization, or club perhaps if that sounds more appealing to you, that focused on improving its members through difficult challenges. This concept has been around for ages be it Fraternities or other institutions, but I have an original take on it all.

One thing within this group would be crazy weekly tasks. For instance I may assign you the task of getting a job interview with the MTV. That’s it. I don’t care how you do it or what the position is for but if next week you don’t have an interview lined up you’re beat unconscious, or at least humiliated. The point is you do your task. The point of this of course is to not only bring you out of your comfort zone but also to eliminate this belief we have has since we entered high school that Impossible is Everything and that you really can’t be an astronaut. Really when you start to fix yourself on impossible tasks you will be amazed at what you can create. The world has been shaped by men who insist of changing the world around them rather than themselves.

Another portion of the club would involve long term challenges just to shake things up. These would usually, but not always, be in the nature of taking something away, like Lent but much less offensive than the Church. I have found that by taking an extreme stance for a period of time (fasting for 2 weeks, quitting all drinking/meat/dairy for a month) you realize what you do and don’t really need and it keeps things fresh. Some upcoming ideas I have include no internet for a week/month or perhaps no cell phone (keep in mind my entire business is done over the phone, through online systems and email but I would find a way to make this work, that is the fun part). Another idea I have been floating around is going 1 week without paying for food, and not being allowed to eat at home (or at least hiding all groceries before your begin). This would really force you to improve your sales abilities; I’ve definitely eaten for free before just by explaining my situation and being charming.

You may be thinking these tasks sound extreme. They are. Goals are boring. Have you ever stuck to a goal like “eat 20% less fast food,” “spend less money” or maybe “go to the gym twice a week.” No you haven’t because they are pathetic impotent goals that won’t inspire you to cross the road. Decide on things that bring your heart to life and the possibilities are endless. Following this idea in the last 2 years I have achieved amazing things. While I could never achieve a goal like “reduce my drinking by 50%” I was somehow able to go cold over the holidays while living in a Penthouse with two of my best friends. Similarly if you told me to try eating more healthy it would never have happened, but I was able to fast for 2 weeks (The Master Cleanse). I don’t know about you, but I wouldn’t be able to make or save $3000 to buy a new Toyota but could make $20,000 inspired by a Ducati.

I work with entrepreneurs to provide them with the confidence, focus and strategies needed to successfully build their first business.

Take Action Today,

Dan Johnston.