char·i·ty
noun
An organization set up to provide help and raise money for those in need.
Hang with me here. This is going to be a bit backwards because we are going to be talking about Anti-Charities.
Quick definition: An anti-charity is an organization who’s very existence makes you crazy. These are the LAST people you would support in any fashion. The thought of making a monetary donation to this group makes you want to throw up!
Perfect. Exactly what we need.
We talked a bit about New Year’s Resolutions a few weeks back and how hard it can be to push that rock up the mountain. According to Yougov.com, about 33% of people were already at least cheating on their resolutions…by Jan 6th. You can read the article here.
So, with that in mind, enter the anti-charity.
In a nutshell, you pick the organization(s) that you dislike so much that you would rather do anything than give them money. And, bonus pain, end up on their mailing and call list!
Give your spouse, boyfriend, girlfriend or trusted buddy some of your hard earned cash and make the deal: “If I don’t stick to my goal ( Whatever your goal is: Exercise 4x week. Lose 15 pounds, Walking the dog daily. Taking piano lessons etc….) you will send my money to ( Fill in the blank.)” There is a good article about this on Forbes.com. You can read it here.
This is the old carrot and the stick with HARD emphasis on the stick. In fact there is a website that will set this up for you called – wait for it – StickK. But you don’t need them. All you need is someone who will know if you don’t follow through and be DELIGHTED to send your money to the Republicans or Democrats. Or Greenpeace or the NRA. You get the picture.
Sometimes negative motivation can be a strong force. Just the thought of Senator xxxxxxxx tucking our check in his or her pocket and smiling might be enough to get us off the couch and out the door.
Thanks for reading so far. I really appreciate it. If you know someone who might like these notes. Just have them send me an email and I will be thrilled to add them to the list.
Have a great weekend everyone.
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