But strategy matters too. If you're using the no cue strategy, then you can either seek
rewards after you take action or stay conscious of how you feel and reward yourself
when you think you need it. Mini habits offer the perk of a greater sense of satisfaction
than traditional habits (i.e. a greater secondary reward!). If you think a great
accomplishment feels good, know that it feels even better when you did 95% of it as
bonus work. Though when you do a lot of bonus work, you might want to reward
yourself to encourage that behavior.
Abstract rewards such as a sense of satisfaction are largely tied to your mindset. This is
why I emphasize that you celebrate your small successes.Success leads to more success,
because we like the results and feelings of success. You'd do well to learn to love delayed
gratification too. The anticipation of a bigger reward later is a form of reward that can
often conquer the temptation to cash in on a smaller reward now. The more you practice
and experience delayed gratification, the more responsive you'll be to it!
My rule of thumb is to keep myself happy while doing this. I know when I'm nearing
burnout, and that's when I'll take a rewarding break.
Rewards Appear To Restore Willpower
Rewards encourage repeat behavior, but did you know that they also restore our willpower?
Cognitive scientist Art Markman says, "When you stand in front of that buffet table filled
with desserts,seek out a friend and have a fun conversation."
It may seem like a puzzling suggestion,but rewards of all kinds may be a viable way to
restore your willpower.