We are in it for the reward! Your 90-Day Goal is building toward something bigger and important that will make you feel good. Some rewards are latent, meaning they take a long time to realize. Other rewards are immediate, meaning you experience them right away. Obviously immediate rewards are easier to pick up and design behaviors around, but both are important to understanding your habits.
Reward is the third component of the The Habit Loop. First there is a cue, then a behavior, and that behavior or activity generates a reward. Rewards can come in the form of physical sensations such as food that tastes good or exercise that gives us a boost from endorphins.
They can also be emotional, such as the feelings of pride or satisfaction that accompany praise or self-congratulation. Rewards are simply what makes you feel good and therefore give us energy for the tasks at hand.
Tip 26: Reward Yourself.
If you have not already, then this is a good time to name the reward that your 90-Day Goal will deliver. If you are working on a new credential for work, then the reward could be that certificate. If you are applying to colleges, then the reward will be the peace and release that comes from having those applications done and submitted.
The reward is what keeps you moving forward when you don’t feel like, when obstacles pop up, when there are plenty of other things that would be more fun or easy to do.
Keep that reward that will come when you crush your 90-Day Goal in front of you. Put a note on your mirror so you see it each morning, capture it in your planner so see it each week, share it with friends and family as you go about your day.
Reward yourself!
Please send me your questions, challenges, and suggestions as we continue in the 90-Day Goal Together. I look forward to hearing from you and sharing the journey with you.
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