How I Get More Done WITHOUT Overcomplicating My Day

How I Get More Done WITHOUT Overcomplicating My Day - Photo by Tim Goedhart on Unsplash

There’s something powerful about giving yourself a reward after finishing a task. I’ve been using this principle for a while now, and it’s changed the way I work and live. Let me share how I do it, and maybe it’ll inspire you to try it too.

Right now, I’m wrapping up a feature for my SaaS software. It’s not a big flashy update—just some DNS infrastructure work for subdomains. But as I’m getting close to the end, I already know what my reward will be: a good brunch. It’s already 11:30, I haven’t eaten yet, and I’m looking forward to a flat white with oat milk and a bit of healthy caramel syrup. That’s my little pleasure for the day. Knowing this is waiting for me pushes me to finish faster.

This isn’t just about food. Sometimes, if I’m working on a bigger project, I set up a bigger reward. For example, I might tell myself I’ll only buy the latest iPhone if I reach my goal of earning €3,000 a month from my freelance work, on top of my regular job. If I don’t hit the goal, I don’t buy it. It’s as simple as that. This gives me a real reason to push myself.

Deadlines are just as important. Without them, it’s too easy to say, “I’ll do it tomorrow,” and then keep pushing things off. But if I set a clear deadline—like, “I need to finish this in X days if I want my reward”—then I have a reason to get moving. It’s not just about the reward, but also about the time frame.

How I Get More Done WITHOUT Overcomplicating My Day - Photo by Lesly Juarez on Unsplash

Everyone has their own style. Some people finish a training session and then treat themselves to a cold beer. When I lived in Sydney, wine was more the thing—like in France, you’d have a glass with friends at a restaurant. Now, in Australia, coffee culture is huge. I love working in places that feel good, with a nice view, some nature, and space to breathe. When I look out over the bay, I feel like anything is possible. If I really want something, I’ll find a way to make it happen.

It’s true that everyone starts from a different place. Some people already have a network or a following, which makes things easier. But even if you start from scratch, you can always find ways to move forward. The key is to set a deadline and a reward. Even for small tasks, I tell myself, “If I finish this before the coffee shop closes at 3 pm, I get my coffee.” That’s another trick: using the closing time as a motivator.

There’s also something called “time boxing.” I’ll work on my laptop until the battery runs out, and I have to finish my task before the screen goes black. It’s a simple way to keep myself focused and on track.

All of this comes down to two things: environment and rewards. If you’re surrounded by people who are working hard, you’ll want to work hard too. If you’re in a place that feels good, it’s easier to get things done. And if you give yourself a reward at the end, you’ll have that extra push to finish.

“If you really want something, you’ll find a way. If you don’t, you’ll find an excuse.”
— Jim Rohn

“Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going.”
— Jim Ryun

So, next time you have something to do, try setting a reward for yourself. Make your environment work for you. And remember, if you believe in your dreams enough, you’ll get there.

How I Get More Done WITHOUT Overcomplicating My Day - Photo by Alisa Anton on Unsplash

Key Takeaways

• Set small rewards for finishing tasks.
• Use deadlines to avoid procrastination.
• Make your environment pleasant and motivating.
• Even small pleasures can push you to finish what you start.

Action Steps

• Pick a task you’ve been putting off.
• Decide on a simple reward for finishing it.
• Set a clear deadline.
• Work in a place that feels good to you.

Reflection

• What’s one small reward that would motivate you today?
• How can you make your environment more inspiring?
• Are you setting real deadlines for your goals?