For a long time, I have used a simple test to see where my motivations come from. If I feel embarrased, or that I am missing out, or that I want something or to do something, I sometimes ask myself:
What if there were no other humans? How would I experience this then?
Do I still feel X? Do I still want Y? Do I still want to do Z?
Often, I find that my motivations come from wanting love, approval, or appreciation from others. And when I see that, something shifts. It eases up. I am more free to chose what makes sense to me. It may be something different, or the same but it’s coming from a slightly different place.
I was reminded of this when I watched the documentary Sherpa last night. Why are some westerners drawn to summitting Everest? Is it for social reasons, or something more intrinsic to them?