People who begin the day working on those tasks they least look forward to create more excitement and positive momentum as the day progresses. By the end of the day, they not only feel more productive, but find each successive task more enjoyable than they should. This is how we can trick the mind through operant conditioning. B.F. Skinner would be proud.
We all know that following vigorous exercise with a small reward, like a delicious snack, encourages us to work out again the next day. This is a classic example of conditioning. Enjoying a reward after something hard or difficult to do motivates us to tackle the next challenge. We earn the right to the reward by doing what is required and difficult.
The same is true with daily tasks, except the reward is already built in. We condition our brains to see a normal task as a well-earned reward when we start with the most difficult chores first. This makes the workday way more enjoyable and exciting, as we build more favorable feelings with each new task.
Try this: Make a list of everything you need to do today. Now, rank this task list based upon what you most want to do and least want to do. Place those tasks that are easiest and most enjoyable at the top and those you dread or find less pleasurable at the bottom. Next, start from the bottom of the list and work your way up as the day unfolds.
An interesting thing happens as you complete tasks throughout the day. Each task, in succession, becomes more interesting, enjoyable, and exciting than it really is. That’s how conditioning works, and doing it on purpose is an effective way to make yourself more productive.
Ordering the day from the hardest tasks to those you most enjoy builds excitement with every successive task. Doing the difficult thing first isn’t just smart. It makes the day more enjoyable.
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