Have you ever considered that when you are unhappy you are actually happy? I hadn’t until tonight. I came across this thought from Gretchen Rubin and my head began to swim with all the things I do on a daily basis that I don’t enjoy, but I will complete because the payoff or reward is the happiness of the end result.
“Happiness Doesn’t Always Make You Feel Happy” -Gretchen Rubin
Here are a few examples I came up with…
Preparing for an event makes me kind of anxious. I usually get ready way too early, and I have plenty of time to fret. As soon as the event begins I’m as happy as can be.
Sometimes if I’m presenting a webinar or in front of a group of people, I can be both happy and anxious at the same time.
Watching my child grow. I hate every second of him getting older, but his every accomplishment fills me with joy.
I realized what a great motivator happiness is. It was kind of a “duh” moment. I just presented a webinar on motivation and I didn’t even mention happiness! Whether they are small tasks or large we generally do them to feel fulfilled and happy.
So now what? How do you take this motivator and put it to work for you?
Think of a dreaded task. Got one? I’m thinking of cleaning the house. I’m having guests over tomorrow. There is fuzz from a dog toy all over the floor, the dishwasher needs to be unloaded, and the bathroom needs a good scrub. I’m not looking forward to any of it.
Ok, now think about why you are doing that task and what the payoff is. I get to have friends over tomorrow and present a new way to get organized. It will be a fun way to spend an afternoon and that makes me happy.
Tomorrow when I’m cleaning, and printing out information, I will remember to focus on the payoff, the reward for the tedious activity. What do you do for the happiness payoff? Share your thoughts the comments below.
