The Marshmallow Experiment – Post #7
Look Backwards
It may sound counterproductive; if we are to focus on the future, why would we look back? Think of it this way – in commerce, people perceive that products and events are more valuable when others are waiting behind us to purchase as well. If you are running a race, it can be incentivizing not to permanently focus on how far is left to run but instead how far you have already come. Therefore, when rolling out new initiatives, emphasize the presence of individuals or competitors who are behind (but not ahead of) those on your team. Spotlight those instances when the team is on the forefront and accentuate the growing number of supports in order to instill a higher level of patience.