Loss Aversion explains why threats typically take precedence over opportunities when it comes to Motivation. The threat of loss used to require immediate attention, because losses were extremely costly—even life threatening. Dying or losing a loved one to a predator, sickness, exposure, or starvation is universally a horrible experience, so we’re b

According to Prospect Theory, humans have an enormous aversion to loss.6 We fear and avoid loss far more than we seek gain. Loss aversion primarily manifests itself in three specific forms—1) continuing to invest in something unprofitable simply because you’ve already invested in it (i.e., sunk cost bias),7,8 2) overvaluing something you own, belie

People’s drive to avoid loss is more powerful than their drive for gain. If your prospects are too comfortable in their current situation, they won’t take the perceived risk of buying from you. The anxiety-causing risks outweigh their desire to gain the benefits of your product or service.