Chapter 1: Understanding the Question

Let’s dive straight into the heart of the matter. Here’s the question:

What do I feel like doing today?

At first glance, this query might appear innocent. However, it can be one of the most perilous questions you can pose to yourself. Let's explore why that is.

Firstly, if you’re like many people, comfort is a priority. I know I certainly enjoy it. If I feel inclined to relax, I will. If I have the urge to watch a film, I’ll go ahead and do that. Even if I’m aware that my choices may have future repercussions, I often choose immediate gratification. Why? Because taking the easy path is appealing, and as humans, we tend to gravitate toward convenience. Most of us prefer to avoid challenges, seeking instead a life free of stress and complications. However, this approach can quickly transform into a less-than-ideal existence.

It’s crucial to recognize that this tendency isn’t your fault. Nearly everyone shares this inclination; it seems we’ve been biologically conditioned to favor comfort. Yet, the reality is that achieving anything of value in life typically requires effort. For instance, if your goal is to become an Olympic swimmer, lounging around all day and indulging in cereal won’t get you there. In the pool, you can't simply float while the competition, like Michael Phelps, is tirelessly honing their skills.

When you’re relaxed in the pool, Phelps is slicing through the water with relentless determination. His days are meticulously scheduled around training, and nothing is more important than his preparation. This dedication pays off during competitions, where he claims the gold while you sit at home watching. You might dream of competing against him, but he’s putting in the work while you’re opting for leisure.

Recognizing this aspect of yourself is vital. There will be moments when motivation is lacking, and you may prefer the comfort of familiar activities over the challenges of the new. There’s nothing wrong with these feelings, but it’s essential to muster the willpower to overcome them and engage in productive work. Although it may feel burdensome, real change often arises through effort. If you engage in something you truly love, does it even feel like work? To others, it might, but for you, it’s a passion.

Let’s return to the question itself. Asking yourself what you feel like doing can lead to a day filled with unfulfilled potential. Allowing fleeting emotions to dictate your actions can result in wasted time. This is a common human experience. Often, when faced with an overwhelming number of tasks, I find myself getting nothing done at all. By day’s end, I’m left wondering where the time went. I want to help you avoid that pitfall.

To combat this, focus on a select few tasks—less is often more. If you’re a creative individual, don’t feel pressured to conform to the rigid hustle culture that often prioritizes quick profits over genuine artistry. You can maintain a sense of spontaneity while also having a clear vision for your projects. When I was writing my book, I dedicated myself fully to that task, postponing other activities until it was completed.

The key to overcoming the inertia associated with this question is quite simple:

Instead of asking what you feel like doing today, plan your day the night before. Create a to-do list before sleeping. When morning arrives, consult your plan and get to work. This way, you’re not letting comfort derail your intentions. You’ll have a clear outline of your tasks, setting your mind up for success.

Consider the structure of a school day. Classes are scheduled consistently, and each day has a routine that becomes second nature over time. If students learned solely based on their whims, they would likely absorb very little knowledge. Instead, schools mitigate this issue with rigid timetables, which effectively guide students in their learning. While school systems are not without flaws, having a structured schedule can be beneficial, especially when trying to navigate through fleeting feelings that may hinder progress.

I hope you find this information valuable.

Thank you for reading,

Godfrey

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