Doing something hard is an experience many people naturally try to avoid. The level of difficulty is often very subjective, and a task that appears trivial to one person, is an insurmountable challenge to another person. Often, the reward for completing a difficult task is sufficient, but for tasks that require a prolonged effort, the reward may be too distant.
Saving for retirement or college, losing and maintaining body weight, quitting smoking, and maintaining a regular exercise routine, are examples of major objectives with which people struggle and for which they seek motivational help.
Until recently motivational experiences revolved around gurus and their "proven" methods for success, which often required the purchase of a multi-step program. From live motivational events, to self-help books and videos, a multi-billion motivational experience industry has evolved over the years, and for the most part, has proven to be very successful for those who sell such products, less...