It is becoming increasingly evident that many people are trapped in what I call the “Vending Machine Syndrome.” This phenomenon occurs when we expect immediate and equal results for our efforts, similar to inserting a dollar into a vending machine and expecting an item worth exactly one dollar in return. The Vending Machine Syndrome manifests itself in various aspects of life, such as religious practices, jobs, businesses, relationships, training, and self-improvement endeavors.
Often, individuals forget that each of us possesses unique strengths and weaknesses. As a result, engaging in the same training or following the same sequence of actions does not guarantee identical outcomes. Numerous factors, both known and unknown, influence the results of every activity we undertake.
You may disagree with this notion, but we can observe this syndrome at play when people are enticed by promises of quick fixes and easy solutions in courses or services they encounter. Consider these enticing claims:
- “The secret to the most accurate forecasting system.”
- “The most powerful words to make others follow your command.”
- “How to win any argument, every single time.”
- “A trading system that is right 90% of the time.”
When you read these sentences, how do you feel? Most of us desire to control others and our environment without putting in the necessary work to improve ourselves.
Now, let’s examine one of the most profitable businesses in the world: the casino. Unfortunately, the casino thrives on the Vending Machine Syndrome. In roulette, for example, choosing either black or red does not provide an equal 50% chance of winning. Instead, it offers a slightly lower 49% chance. Consequently, the house holds a 51% advantage. The casino knows that if players continue to gamble, the house will always come out on top.
Consider this: If a casino were to increase its winning percentage to 90%, would players still be attracted to play the game? Furthermore, would the casino even want to increase its winning percentage to such a level in the first place?
In today’s world, more and more people are shifting their focus from internal growth to seeking the “holy grail” solution—an instant fix for everything. However, I pose a question for you to ponder: If you were to possess the holy grail for everything in the world, but you were not ready or wise enough to utilize it, would you truly benefit from it?
On the other hand, what if you had a technique that worked only 51% of the time, or even just 50.1%, but you were prepared to use it and had mastered your emotions and mind? In that scenario, what would stop you from reaping the rewards?
Consider this analogy: The best GPS system in the world will not guide you to your destination if you are unwilling to take action. Similarly, the most powerful sales technique will repel clients if you are driven by fear and greed simultaneously.
You may have heard stories of two individuals using the same trading system and entering trades simultaneously, yet one of them profits while the other loses everything. The determining factor often lies in their ability to manage fear and greed.
For those seeking personal discovery and growth, I invite you to engage in a conversation with me. Together, we can explore how we can help you. Contact us at mandd.fernando@miracleofminds.com.
Your subconscious coach,
Mandd Fernando