Master the Art of Business
A world-class business education in a single volume. Learn the universal principles behind every successful business, then use these ideas to make more money, get more done, and have more fun in your life and work.
What Is 'Attachment'?
Attachment means becoming emotionally invested in a certain result, status, environment, or idea. The more attached you are to something, the more you limit your flexibility and reduce your chances of finding a better way.
Twists in life are bound to happen. It's smart to live to fight another day.
Acceptance means applying the concept of Sunk Costs to yourself.
The way to deal with Attachment is to accept that your idea is no longer feasible. Accept what happened and focus on ways to make it better.
Josh Kaufman Explains 'Attachment'
Imagine you're on your way up Mt. Everest, on the way to achieving your Goal. The night before you plan to summit, a massive storm appears without warning. Visibility is zero, the temperature is steadily dropping, and conditions are so bad you risk falling or freezing to death if you continue climbing.
Here's the question: have you failed?
When something outside of our Locus of Control affects our plans or goals, it's easy to take it personally.
If you have your heart set on summiting Mt. Everest today, you'll likely meet your doom. Far better to change your plans and live to climb the mountain another day.
The more Attached you are to a particular idea or plan, the more you limit your flexibility and reduce the chances of finding a better solution.
It's good to be dedicated to the pursuit of your goals, but only to a point. Become too attached to the visions you have in your head, and you'll have a hard time adjusting to the inevitable twists and turns of life.
Acceptance requires applying the concept of Sunk Cost to yourself.
Imagine losing millions of dollars in the stock market-a horrible situation. No matter how you rail against greedy bankers, corrupt politicians, or the unfairness of life, it's not going to bring that money back. Spending time feeling down for not "knowing better" or being omniscient won't improve your situation.
The solution to Attachment is accepting that your idea or plan is no longer feasible or useful.
The less attached you are to your plans, goals, status, and position, the easier it will be to respond appropriately to inevitable change or unforeseen circumstances.
If you suddenly lose your job, remaining attached to your previous position is a hindrance, not a help. It's better to spend your energy doing what needs to be done to bring in more income.
The more you focus and accept the things that have happened and choose to work on things that you can do to make things better, the happier you'll be.
Questions About 'Attachment'
- How attached are you to a certain vision of how you want life to be?
- Is it useful in driving you forward, or is it limiting your flexibility?
"If thou wilt make a man happy, add not unto his riches but take away from his desires."
Epicurus, ancient Greek philosopher
Working With Yourself
https://personalmba.com/attachment/
Master the Art of Business
A world-class business education in a single volume. Learn the universal principles behind every successful business, then use these ideas to make more money, get more done, and have more fun in your life and work.
About Josh Kaufman
Josh Kaufman is an acclaimed business, learning, and skill acquisition expert. He is the author of two international bestsellers: The Personal MBA and The First 20 Hours. Josh's research and writing have helped millions of people worldwide learn the fundamentals of modern business.
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