In the room where you work, get a second chair and put it in the middle of the room, where it’s a little bit rude and in the way. When it’s time to do a task, tell yourself you can either sit in your work chair and do the work, or get up and sit in the resting chair.
To sit in the resting chair isn’t a punishment. It means you don’t want to work. And why would you do something you don’t want to do?
So, sit in the resting chair. Don’t bring your phone with you. Rest, let your mind run. If you know some breathing exercises or stretches, then do those. Then, an amazing thing will happen.
You’ll get bored.
Now, ask yourself if you’re interested in doing your work. You might have to go back and forth between the chairs. But eventually, your dopamine levels will drop enough that your reward systems will fire while you’re working. Then, you’ll settle down to do the work.
The greatest achievements on earth were accomplished by people who wanted to accomplish them. Their chemical reward systems were working in line with their ambition.
Doing this exercise requires that you notice and do what you want. This simple method is the best one I’ve found to notice your own desire to achieve.
Watch the TikTok version below.