No Enjoyable Till It’s Performed!:The Artwork of The Reward

Ready for some reality which may sound a bit harsh? Here it’s: No enjoyable till it’s achieved! The concept isn’t rocket science – we don’t get to eat our ice cream till after we’ve eaten our veggies. Too typically, folks flip the order, getting a spoonful (or extra!) of enjoyable earlier than the work is full, solely to seek out themselves caught in a motivational malaise later–and questioning why issues are so arduous! Learning the artwork of contingent rewards is one in every of life’s most vital expertise, particularly for many who worth productiveness. It is value instructing to each youngster… and maybe a couple of adults, too.
Imagine this state of affairs: a toddler runs by way of the door after college, chomping on the bit to start the last word phone-game marathon. “But I need a break!” she protests, ignoring the English essay that’s ready for her consideration. Cue the onset of the traditional homework battle, and also you’re asking your self, “Why does this keep happening??” It’s taking place as a result of she has gotten into the behavior of dipping into “fun” earlier than she tackles duties, making the transition from leisure to work time really feel like buying and selling a sundae for a plate of brussels sprouts. Even the most effective of us would bristle at these brussels!

Psychologically, beginning with one thing irresistible and pleasurable (good day, quicksand actions!) makes shifting gears almost unimaginable. These are the video games, exhibits, or digital black holes that suck up time and really feel unstoppable. The frontal lobes of children, and sure, adults too, aren’t wired to effortlessly resist the temptation of one thing simple and enjoyable when it’s introduced as an choice. It’s arduous sufficient to muster the motivation for non-preferred duties – why stack the chances in opposition to your self or your youngster by establishing a backward reward system by dangling the choice of one thing extra enjoyable? This shouldn’t be a selection.

A greater answer: deal with enjoyable actions like prizes on the end line, not distractions alongside the way in which. Make “No fun until it’s done!” the household’s motto. Short breaks are nice – actually, they’re important – so long as they don’t contain “quicksand-level” temptations. Once the work is completed, the candy reward tastes even higher realizing it was earned. Teaching this contingency isn’t only for youngsters. It’s a lifelong skill that, when challenged early and achieved constantly, turns right into a persisting behavior. So go forward – get these to-dos achieved and start your a lot deserved plan of enjoyable!

I’m excited to share extra sensible methods to enhance government performing at The Help Group Summit on November 14, 2025 — be a part of us in individual or on-line.