Should You Reward Yourself More Often than You Do?

As someone who is deeply dedicated to my work and striving for excellence, I often reflect on my own personal habits and what motivates me. It's a common belief that rewarding oneself can be a powerful motivator, driving the desire to achieve more. However, my experience has shown me that while rewarding myself is comforting, it often leads to an overwhelming cycle of tasks and responsibilities.

Chasing Rewards

For example, a new appliance might inspire me to cook more to showcase it, and a new pair of compression socks might make me want to run more to make the most of them. Similarly, a new book could push me to read more to enjoy it. However, these tasks, while initially exciting, eventually add to the pile of commitments I have to manage.

So, it's understandable to believe that practicing self-reward can help balance life and work by providing incentives. However, for me, this approach has not always been as effective as I hoped.

When Rewards Fail

My current reality is often a struggle between work and personal life. The idea of reward is far from the break I need. In fact, it can turn into another task that must be completed, which can be exhausting. This constant cycle can lead to burnout and a lack of fulfillment. Additionally, the rewards themselves do not always equate to genuine happiness.

Productivity vs. Rest

In my case, sleep is often more productive than engaging in any form of self-reward. It provides a necessary respite that allows me to approach tasks with fresh eyes and renewed energy. The reality is that self-reward can sometimes be a distractor that shifts focus away from what truly matters: completing work and improving myself in meaningful ways.

Long-Term Goals vs. Short-Term Bliss

There's a long-term goal to achieving stability and success, but for now, my life is filled with non-stop work. This doesn't mean I don't enjoy what I do or that I am not passionate about it. However, the constant chase for rewards can sometimes detract from the intrinsic satisfaction that should come from hard work and dedication.

I often find myself reflecting on the trade-offs. While the occasional reward or milestone can be uplifting, the long-term impact can sometimes be detrimental to overall well-being. It's important to find a balance between rewarding oneself and maintaining a healthy work-life integration.

The Search for True Fulfillment

True fulfillment, in my experience, comes not from external rewards but from a deep sense of purpose and accomplishment. The occasional people who turn on me or face abuse are reminders that not everything is always positive, but it is through these challenges that I grow and find genuine joy in my work.

So, while self-reward can provide temporary boosts, it does not create long-term happiness or satisfaction. It's essential to approach life with a balanced mindset, recognizing when to take breaks, when to rest, and when to reflect on one's true goals and values.

Life is about more than just the rewards. It's about the journey and the impact we make along the way. Every step, no matter how small, brings us closer to a more fulfilling and meaningful existence. So, my advice is to prioritize rest, reflect on what truly matters, and find joy in the journey.