Reward Progress Like a Game
Sometimes, the thing that will help us move forward—the thing that actually leads to the life we want—is the boring thing. The thing we never really feel like doing. And that’s probably why we avoid it.
So, how do we get ourselves to do it? We build systems like a game.
Games are designed to keep us engaged. They have progress bars, achievements, and small rewards that make every step feel exciting. That’s part of what makes them fun—we get immediate feedback and small wins along the way. What if we used the same strategy in real life?
One reason games keep us playing is the reward system. Whether it’s unlocking a new level, earning a badge, or seeing a progress bar fill up, these small victories keep us motivated. But in life, we often skip right over our progress and only focus on what’s left to do.
That’s why I started adding small rewards to keep myself engaged—not just big rewards for major milestones, but little boosts along the way. If I complete a challenging task, I might take a break with foamed milk in my coffee. When I cross something off my list that I was reluctant to do, I have a personal dance party. If I finish a tough project, I relax with some fun videos for a bit. These small moments make the process feel more enjoyable, not just the end result.
Another trick is accountability. I text my brothers—both when I feel accomplished and when I’m struggling. Being open about both my wins and my setbacks keeps me from hiding either one and self-sabotaging in the process.
The truth is, rewards aren’t just about the reward itself. They’re markers. They remind us to notice our progress, to acknowledge the achievements we might otherwise overlook.
By treating tasks like missions and giving myself small rewards along the way, even the hardest challenges feel more doable. It turns effort into a game instead of a grind.
ACTION: Think about something you’re working on. How can you add small rewards to keep yourself engaged? Maybe it’s a short break after a tough task or something fun to wrap up the day. Find a way to make progress feel good—not just the finish line.
