The Satisfaction of Finally Getting It Done
Since returning from Europe, I’ve been looking at my to-do list differently. Instead of asking what I’d most enjoy doing today, I’ve started asking which choice will leave me feeling most satisfied by the end of it. It’s a small change in thinking, but it’s made a surprising difference.
Since returning from Europe, I’ve had a long list of jobs waiting for me. Normally I’d slot them into my week – Monday one thing, Tuesday another, Wednesday something else. This time I’ve tried something different.
Instead of asking, “What do I feel like doing today?” I’ve started asking, “What will give me the greatest satisfaction by the end of the day?”
On Saturday, that meant swapping my usual cycle ride for a morning in the front garden. The large laurel had become overgrown, and had been nagging at me for weeks. By lunchtime it was back under control, and every time I look at it now I feel a quiet sense of satisfaction.
This morning, I made the same decision. Rather than heading off for a game of golf, I tackled the utility room. I’m sitting here at lunchtime before taking the last load to the tip, and it already feels good. In a couple of hours the job will be finished, and I won’t need to think about it again for a long while.
Golf will still be there next week. So will the bike. But those jobs had been quietly taking up space in my mind.
I’ve realised that sometimes the greatest pleasure doesn’t come from doing what you most enjoy. It comes from finally finishing the thing you’ve been avoiding.
The discomfort of getting started is temporary. The satisfaction of having it done lasts much longer.
💜 Thanks for reading.
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