I talked about an epiphany in Fulfilled vs Excited post. What epiphany was that partying all night or vacation would leave me feeling empty next day or week. But working on a project or reading a book on a new API makes me feel fulfilled. But I wasn’t so sure what it meant. Tynan posted a great post on his blog about same subject but he makes a lot more sense:
Who’s happier at the end of the day: a guy who spent twelve hours restoring his Mustang or a guy who sat on the couch and watched TV all day?
It’s so true. Movies, video games and other such activities are like energy drinks, a crash follows. But doing what engages you is like a going to gym everyday and getting in better shape. Of course, everyone needs some energy drinks now and then but they should not become your only source of energy to stay awake. Similarly movies or video games or even sky diving are great to give you a high but you need something more engaging to feel fulfilled or happy.
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Hey Amer,
Here’s something that keeps me going. When I wake up in the morning, I think about what I want to do to improve my business. At night when I go to sleep, I think about what I did to improve my business. This checks and balance approach really helps me stay focused and determined to get the work I need done.
Btw, it was good meeting you.
Not only that, but I would also add in that even during a “crash” there is some value in having the mind agile. This provides time to not only reflect upon the recent activity, but perhaps deeply consider and contemplate the next steps forward. Sometimes, one of the best things we can do is take a step back and simply observe our own intended actions and thoughts.