The Gap and the Gain

"Most people, especially highly ambitious people, are unhappy because of what they measure themselves against. We all have an ideal, which is like a moving target always out of reach. When we measure ourselves against our ideal, we're in "The Gap." However, when we measure ourselves against our previous selves-the person we were when we set our goals and ideals-we will be in "The Gain." In "The Gain" we can more clearly see the progress we've made, and therefore will experience the happiness, confidence, and satisfaction that come from achieving-positive, powerful emotions that will motivate us to pursue new goals and ultimately become increasingly successful"--