You re less motivated to succeed when you know you have a backup plan the safety net makes you likely to work less hard

You're less motivated to succeed when you know you have a backup plan

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Having a backup plan is often seen as a wise and practical approach to life. It gives us a sense of security, knowing that there is an alternative available if things don’t go as planned. However, recent studies have shown that having a backup plan can actually diminish our motivation to succeed. In fact, the safety net that comes with having a backup plan often makes us less inclined to work hard and put in the necessary effort.

Researchers from the University of Chicago conducted a series of experiments to investigate how the presence of a backup plan affects motivation and performance. They found that individuals who had a backup plan in place exerted less effort compared to those who didn’t have one. This phenomenon can be attributed to a psychological effect known as “slackness aversion.” When we have a safety net, we tend to become complacent and settle for mediocrity, knowing that we have something to fall back on.

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One of the main reasons why having a backup plan reduces motivation is that it creates a comfort zone. When we know there is an alternative path available, we tend to take it easy and don’t push ourselves to our full potential. We become less willing to take risks or step out of our comfort zones because we feel secure in the knowledge that failure won’t be catastrophic. As a result, our desire to succeed diminishes, and we settle for average rather than striving for greatness.

Furthermore, having a backup plan also divides our attention and focus. When we have multiple options or alternatives, our energy and efforts become fragmented. We may feel less inclined to commit wholeheartedly to one particular goal or endeavor because we know we have a backup plan to fall back on. This lack of singular focus and dedication can hinder our performance and prevent us from achieving optimal results.

However, it is important to note that completely abandoning backup plans isn’t the solution either. While having a safety net can decrease motivation, it also provides a sense of stability and security. It is essential to strike a balance between having a backup plan and utilizing it as a safety net while maintaining the drive to work hard and strive for success.

In conclusion, the downside of having a backup plan is that it diminishes our motivation to succeed. The comfort and security that come with a safety net can make us less inclined to work hard and reach our full potential. Understanding this psychological effect can help us find the right balance between having a backup plan and maintaining the drive and determination to achieve our goals.

Source: Wharton - The Downside of Making a Backup Plan