Month: October 2023

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A Reflection on Personal Growth and Developing Self-Care Routines Post-Stroke

Hello dear readers,

Navigating life post-stroke has been a journey paved with deliberate routines and self-improvement. A significant aspect of this journey has been the establishment of a series of routines, primarily developed to alleviate the responsibilities shouldered by my wife. While these routines primarily aimed to ease her burden, they inadvertently led to the evolution of my self-care practices, marking a pivotal shift in my daily life.

My exercise routines significantly epitomize the change in my self-care habits. However, a more subtle yet equally important transformation has occurred in my approach to personal hygiene. Admittedly, before my stroke, my dedication to maintaining hygiene was not up to the mark, something I now acknowledge with a tinge of embarrassment. My approach to tasks such as brushing my teeth and showering was rather lackadaisical, often being deferred until absolutely necessary.

This lax attitude towards personal hygiene was emblematic of a broader neglect for structured routines, resulting in tasks being addressed only when they became pressing issues rather than preemptively managed through a systematic schedule. I would often forgo brushing my teeth before bedtime and treated showering as an irregular, need-based activity. This procrastination undoubtedly led to lapses in maintaining an optimal level of cleanliness.

However, the adversities following my stroke catalyzed change, prompting a radical shift in my self-care routines. I revamped my approach to personal hygiene, establishing regular and optimized routines for showering and oral care. This transformation has not only enabled me to maintain a higher standard of cleanliness than before my stroke but has also instilled a sense of pride in my newfound commitment to self-care.

This newfound pride, however, casts a shadow on my previous lack of discipline, intensifying the embarrassment I feel about my past behavior. Reflecting upon this, my previous approach to life could be characterized by a lack of structured habits rather than merely having poor ones. Tasks were addressed reactively, demanding attention only when they escalated into problems instead of being proactively managed through a well-organized schedule.

The transformation in my self-care routines, prompted by my stroke, signifies more than just a change in habits; it marks a journey of personal growth and self-reflection. While many might categorize my previous lifestyle as being plagued by bad habits, I perceive it as a time when I lacked structured routines, addressing tasks only when they became urgent rather than proactively managing them.

In retrospect, I feel a sense of accomplishment in how I have turned a page in my life, developing self-care routines that have greatly surpassed my pre-stroke levels. However, this pride is accompanied by a heightened sense of shame for my previous negligence, serving as a constant reminder of the importance of maintaining disciplined habits.

Despite the embarrassment, this journey of self-improvement post-stroke has been enlightening, teaching me the value of structured routines and proactive self-care. It has been a testament to the potential for positive change, even in the face of adversity, and the importance of reflecting on one’s habits and continually striving for improvement.

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Crafting My Path: Unveiling My Ten-Week Chess Improvement Strategy

Hello dear readers,

Embarking on a journey of personal growth and skill enhancement, yesterday marked the culmination of my meticulous efforts in drafting a comprehensive chess improvement plan. With the serene ambiance post-dishwashing and the anticipatory aroma of the next day’s coffee setting the stage, I’ve dedicated myself to devoting a substantial 90 minutes each day to the intricate art of chess.

In the vast and intriguing landscape of chess, openings form the initial steps that lead to the myriad possibilities of the game. Recognizing their significance, I’ve carefully curated a list of 10 esteemed openings, each holding the potential to unravel new layers of strategic depth. The intriguing aspect of this endeavor is not just the diversity of the openings but the systematic approach I’ve adopted to study them. Every week, a selected opening from the list becomes the focal point of my exploration.

Mondays, the heralds of a new week, are dedicated to adjusting a well-structured template study plan, aligning it with the nuances and subtleties of the specific opening chosen. This initial adaptation lays down a solid foundation, facilitating a deeper and more nuanced understanding of the opening throughout the week. From Tuesday to Friday, I diligently adhere to the tailored plan, immersing myself in the intricacies and strategies that each unique opening presents. This structured approach ensures a gradual yet comprehensive grasp of the selected opening, paving the way for mastery.

Weekends bring with them a different flavor to my chess improvement journey. Stepping away from the theoretical and strategic studies, I engage in practical application by playing a game or two against the unrelenting and unbiased computer. This transition from theory to practice is instrumental, as it allows me to witness the real-time application and effectiveness of the strategies I’ve been immersed in throughout the week. The computer, with its calculated precision and absence of human error, serves as a formidable opponent, challenging me to elevate my game.

Spanning across ten weeks, this meticulously crafted plan offers a balanced blend of theory, strategy, and practical application, each component reinforcing the other. As I navigate through the varied openings and adapt my strategies, I am not just learning; I am evolving, refining my approach and enhancing my skills with every passing day. The journey, while demanding, is as enriching as the game of chess itself – filled with endless possibilities, challenges, and moments of triumph.

As the final week approaches and the completion of the ten-week journey is on the horizon, the anticipation builds. With enhanced skills and a plethora of new strategies under my belt, I will start scouting for a local tournament. This will serve as the ultimate testing ground, a platform to apply, assess, and showcase the knowledge and skills I’ve accumulated. The tournament is not just a competition; it’s a reflection of my growth, a manifestation of my dedication, and a testament to the effectiveness of my chess improvement plan.

 

In conclusion, this ten-week chess improvement journey is more than a structured learning experience. It’s a personal endeavor of growth, reflection, and continuous learning. Through a balanced mix of study and practice, adaptation and application, I am not only navigating the complex world of chess openings but also crafting my path towards mastery. As I look forward to the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead, I am reminded that, like chess, life too is a game of endless possibilities and strategic moves.

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Journey to Independence: Managing Medication after a Stroke and Kidney Failure

Hello dear readers,

Embarking on a journey of recovering and adjusting after being diagnosed with kidney failure and experiencing a stroke, one of the first tasks I embraced was refilling my pillbox, a responsibility my loving wife initially shouldered. Medicine became routine in the dawning days of this journey, marking my mornings and nights with the regularity of a ticking clock. It was my wife who, with tender care, refilled the pillbox and managed the reordering of the medicines as the need arose.

As the weeks unfolded and I became more acclimated to being back in the familiar surroundings of our home, I began assisting my wife with this task. With keen eyes and an attentive mind, I observed her process, anticipating the day I would take on this responsibility. My wife, the pillar of support she’s always been, patiently guided me and watched as I took tentative steps in managing my medication.

After observing her meticulous process for a few weeks, it was my turn to step into the spotlight. My wife watched as I took the reins, and upon being satisfied with my proficiency, she entrusted me with this task, allowing me the freedom to manage it on my own schedule. Thursdays suited me best for this task. The reason being, while refilling, I could assess if any prescriptions needed replenishment. Placing an order on Thursday meant we could conveniently pick up the medicines from the pharmacy over the weekend.

My strategy to ensure the accurate refilling of my pillbox is methodical yet straightforward. I begin by emptying the small storage box containing the myriad of medicine bottles. As I allocate a pill from each bottle into the designated day compartment of the pillbox, I return the bottle to its abode in the storage box, continuing this process until each bottle has been attended to. The final step in my routine involves a swift count of the pills in each compartment before sealing them securely. This meticulous count ensures that no pill has found its way into the wrong compartment, maintaining the order crucial for my health.

Over the past couple of years, this process has seen only minimal changes. The most notable difference is the shift in the pharmacy we use and our preference for delivering the medicines to our doorstep. This convenient service means our weekends are no longer marked by trips to the pharmacy, allowing us more leisurely time together.

The journey through stroke recovery and managing kidney failure has been marked by adaptation and learning. Taking over the responsibility of refilling my pillbox has been a significant step towards independence, symbolizing my ability to manage aspects of my care. While the routine is simple, it signifies a triumph, a small victory in my journey toward autonomy and well-being.

I hope to inspire and encourage others to navigate similar paths by sharing this. The road to recovery and adjustment is paved with small victories, each step marking progress and growth. Here’s to celebrating every achievement, no matter how small, and embracing the journey with hope and resilience.

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Crafting Tomorrow: The Influence of Nightly Planning on Daily Tasks

Hello, cherished readers,

Every night, as the tranquil hush of impending slumber envelops me, I indulge in crafting a meticulous list of tasks for the upcoming day. This ritual, albeit simple, has become an integral part of my nightly routine, bridging the realms of rest and readiness. At times, this involves a candid conversation with my wife, enquiring about any shared plans or activities we might have on the horizon. It could be a shopping excursion for athletic shoes or perhaps a visit to the familiar aisles of our favored Asian grocery store.

My wife harbors a penchant for tackling these errands bright and early, setting the tone for the day with a burst of productivity. Knowing that these activities are lined up serves as a gentle nudge, encouraging me to rise and shine promptly, resisting the lingering temptation to indulge in a few more moments of blissful slumber.

Regardless of the nature of the tasks, whether they elicit joy or are somewhat mundane, I’ve discovered that anticipating them plays a pivotal role in their successful accomplishment. Suppose the tasks in question are not particularly enjoyable. In that case, pre-planning serves as a form of mental preparation, like bracing oneself for an impending impact. Conversely, suppose they are activities I find pleasure in. In that case, the anticipation allows me to savor the joy even before the task has commenced.

This nightly ritual of mapping out the subsequent day’s tasks has bestowed upon me a sense of direction and purpose. It acts as a compass, navigating me through the labyrinth of daily responsibilities and pursuits, ensuring I embark on each day with clarity and resolve. It is akin to laying down the foundation of a structure, providing the stability and support needed for the ensuing construction.

Moreover, the act of planning cultivates a mindset of readiness and adaptability. It transforms the unknown landscape of tomorrow into a well-charted territory, where each step is deliberate and every action purposeful. This transformation is not just about organization but also about fostering a mental state where motivation and anticipation are interwoven into the fabric of my day.

In addition, this practice has played a significant role in enhancing my relationship with my wife. The nightly dialogues have become a sanctuary of shared aspirations and mutual understanding. They offer a glimpse into each other’s worlds, fostering a deeper connection and a harmonious synchronization of our daily rhythms.

In conclusion, the simple act of nightly planning has rippling effects on my daily life. It not only helps in structuring my day but also fortifies the mental fortitude needed to face both enjoyable and challenging tasks. It fosters a symbiotic relationship with my partner, aligning our paths and nurturing a shared vision for the day ahead. So, dear readers, I invite you to explore the potential that lies in the quiet moments before sleep in crafting tomorrow today.

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Embarking on a New Chess Learning Journey: Renewed Strategies and Small Steps

Hello to my cherished readers,

Since penning down my thoughts on neurofatigue and reflecting on how it used to encumber my progress while immersing myself in the world of chess, the idea of revisiting my chess studies has been brewing in my mind. However, this time, I’m inspired to leverage the invaluable lessons I’ve garnered in the realm of forming habits, establishing routines, and making incremental progress toward my goals. The conception of this endeavor excites me, and though it will necessitate some time to craft a practical approach, the anticipation only fuels my enthusiasm.

Delving back into chess, I want to ensure that my methodology is refined and well-structured. The planning process is crucial, and I intend to devote considerable time to it. My aim is not just to rekindle my acquaintance with the game but to deepen my understanding and mastery of it. The prospect of embarking on this journey fills me with anticipation, and I am eager to explore chess’s myriad possibilities.

I am currently in the process of sketching a rough outline, delineating what I aspire to achieve and the strategies I will employ to commence this journey. One of the initial steps I am contemplating is to identify ten chess openings that will be the focal point of my study. These openings will form the foundation of my learning, and I plan to dedicate a week to delve into the intricacies and nuances of each one. This approach will allow me to build a robust base and gain a deeper insight into the diverse strategies and tactics employed in the game.

Setting a definite start date and allotting regular time for study are also integral components of my plan. Consistency is key in any learning endeavor, and by establishing a routine, I aim to ensure that my studies are systematic and productive. I am in the process of fine-tuning the details, and once the plan is more concrete, I am eager to share the specifics with you all. Your insights and feedback will be invaluable as I navigate this exciting journey.

The prospect of rekindling my passion for chess, armed with newfound knowledge and strategies, is invigorating. I am keenly aware of the challenges that lie ahead. Still, I am equally cognizant of the rewards of perseverance and dedication. This endeavor is not just about revisiting a past interest; it is about evolving my approach, enhancing my skills, and achieving a deeper understanding and appreciation of the game.

I eagerly look forward to this journey’s myriad of learnings and experiences. The world of chess is vast and varied, and I am excited to explore its depths, uncover its secrets, and share my journey with you. The planning phase is a time of reflection and strategizing. I am embracing it with open arms, looking forward to the possibilities that await.

In closing, I am enthusiastic about this new chapter and am diligently working towards crafting a well-thought-out plan. The journey promises to be enlightening, and I am eager to share my progress, learnings, and experiences with you. Keep an eye out for updates as I continue to refine my approach and embark on this exciting venture into the captivating world of chess.

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The Power of Consistency: One Week of Daily Blogging and the Journey Ahead

Hello to our wonderful community of readers,

It has been a somber period for my wife and me since the heartbreaking passing of our dearly beloved cat, Gambi. Our home has felt a bit emptier, our routines a little less bright, and our hearts burdened with the weight of mourning. In the wake of this loss, we’ve been traversing the challenging journey of grief, remembering Gambi’s tender meows and playful antics while grappling with the void left in her absence.

Amid our sorrow, an unexpected beam of light arrived at our doorstep yesterday, courtesy of my thoughtful mother and sisters. They extended a gesture of love and consolation by sending us a quaint yet immensely meaningful gift – a small pillow graced with two printed pictures of our sweet Gambi. The images captured her spirit beautifully, reminding us of the joy and love she infused into our lives.

Upon receiving this sentimental token, we were compelled to give it a place of honor on our bed, where Gambi used to snuggle and purr contentedly. That night, as we held the pillow close, tears flowed freely, each drop a testament to our love for our cherished feline companion. In those moments of vulnerability, the pillow became a source of solace, a tangible reminder of the bond we shared with Gambi.

Interestingly, I pondered the realization that, left to my own devices, I might never have ventured to purchase such a unique memorial item. The concept of a pillow adorned with Gambi’s likeness wasn’t something I was familiar with, nor something I actively sought. However, now that this precious gift is in our possession, I am profoundly grateful. It’s as if, through this pillow, Gambi has returned to offer warm cuddles and comforting purrs, easing the sharp sting of loss.

As we continue to navigate the tumultuous seas of grief, this pillow serves as a gentle anchor, allowing us to find a balance between mourning our loss and celebrating the myriad moments of joy Gambi brought into our lives. The pain of her absence remains, yet the pillow helps us focus on the beautiful memories we created together, fostering a sense of peace and gratitude.

For anyone who has experienced the profound loss of a beloved pet, consider exploring the option of a similar memorial item. Our pillow was crafted by the talented team at Shutterfly, encapsulating Gambi’s essence and providing a tangible way to honor her memory.

Ultimately, while the void left by Gambi’s departure will never fully dissipate, the memorial pillow symbolizes enduring love and cherished memories. It has brought us comfort in our mourning. I believe it may offer solace to others navigating the complex terrain of grief as a reminder of the joy and love our pets bring into our lives.

Thank you for allowing me to share this personal journey with you, dear readers. May we all find ways to honor and remember our furry friends who have crossed the rainbow bridge, cherishing the love and warmth they brought into our hearts.

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A Slice of Life: Learning From Kitchen Mishaps

Hello, dear readers,

Yesterday, amid the ordinary hustle and bustle of preparing dinner, I unintentionally sustained an injury on the pad of my right thumb. The culprit? None other than our household mandolin, which I had ventured to use without donning the accompanying safety glove, subsequently slicing out a significant piece of my thumb’s pad.

In hindsight, I was fully aware of the precautions needed when engaging with such tools, but alas, the glove seemed to have been playing hide and seek. I thought, “No harm, I’ll tread carefully.” The irony wasn’t lost when my careful treading proved insufficient, landing me exactly where I hoped not to be.

Every time I find myself in such unforeseen and often preventable predicaments, my mind naturally leans into contemplation, dissecting the whys and hows, striving to unearth lessons that might shield me from a recurrence of such events. In this particular scenario, deducing the ‘why’ required no strenuous thought – the absence of essential safety gear was glaringly obvious.

Given the circumstances, a more rational alternative would have been resorting to the reliable simplicity of a knife to cut the carrots. Stubborn resolve, however, had me fixated on the mandolin, which, to be fair, was ideally suited for the task at hand. Another seemingly sensible route that eluded me was investing more time in pursuing the elusive glove.

The persistent reminder of this little incident, marked by the slight discomfort, will instill a greater sense of responsibility in me. It might just be the nudge I need to shrug off laziness and adhere more strictly to the practices I cognitively recognize as essential rather than relying on the flimsy reassurance of “I’ll just be careful.”

The incident, though minor, serves as a poignant reminder of the interplay between mindfulness and our daily actions. A fleeting moment of negligence, spurred by the unassuming thought of bypassing necessary precautions, can manifest in tangible repercussions. This slice of my life has reaffirmed the importance of mindfulness, especially within the confines of a space as dynamic and unpredictable as the kitchen.

It’s an enlightening revelation, recognizing that the solutions and preventive measures are often well within our grasp, hidden in plain sight. The glove was there, somewhere, waiting to shield me from harm. Yet, a momentary lapse in judgment and a dash of impatience set the stage for an avoidable mishap.

This is a subtle yet significant nudge, encouraging me. Hopefully, you, dear reader, can pause, reflect, and opt for the safer, more mindful path, even in the seemingly mundane tasks that fill our daily lives. Sometimes, the small, seemingly inconsequential decisions culminate in lessons most profound, steering us towards a path of greater awareness and prudence.

So here’s to embracing mindfulness in our everyday endeavors, learning from each misstep, and fostering a culture of safety and reflection, even in the seemingly trivial corners of our existence.

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Cultivating the Mind: The Art of Mental Pruning for Self-Improvement

From the recesses of my earliest memories, I’ve battled the demons of intrusive thoughts and impulses. While I have successfully tamed the majority, a few still slip through the cracks, especially in moments of distraction or heightened stress, leading to undesirable actions. To mitigate such occurrences, I practice what I’ve come to call ‘mental pruning.’

Mental pruning is a conscious, deliberate effort to suppress and eventually erase impulsive, negative thoughts. The process demands envisioning the person I aspire to be; this mental portrait serves as a benchmark against which I assess the nature of my impulsive thoughts. It acts as a guiding light, illuminating the counter-thoughts that help me weed out the undesirable ones.

For instance, there have been occasions when I’ve snapped at my wife unreasonably. Recognizing this as contrary to the person I strive to be, I visualize the action, recoil at the thought, and reestablish a mental image of my ideal self. Through repetition, I notice such impulses diminishing as if I’ve pruned that branch of thought to the extent that it no longer overshadows my desired thinking.

This strategy of self-training may resonate with you. While it’s no easy feat and demands constant vigilance and mental effort, I can vouch for its efficacy in my journey. It may well be adaptable to your pursuit of self-improvement, helping you become the person you aspire to be.

By becoming conscious of an intrusive thought, I focus my willpower on suppressing it, aiming to expunge it from the recesses of my mind. This task necessitates the formation of a mental image of my ideal self. I employ this image as a comparative tool to assess impulsive thoughts and as a wellspring for the counter-thoughts that cleanse my mind of negativity.

Such a mental pruning exercise is not merely an act of suppression; it’s a cultivation of the mind, nurturing the positive and curbing the negative. The analogy of pruning is apt, as it embodies the essence of selective elimination and regrowth, creating room for the blossoming of desirable thoughts and behaviors.

The journey of mental pruning is far from a stroll in the park. It demands resilience, patience, and a relentless pursuit of self-betterment. The fruits of this labor, however, are profoundly rewarding. The diminishing of undesirable impulses and the flourishing of positive thoughts are testaments to the transformative power of this practice.

I hope that sharing my experience with mental pruning may inspire others to embark on their journeys of self-discovery and improvement. The road may be arduous, and the pruning shears may sometimes feel heavy. Still, the prospect of cultivating a mind enriched with positive thoughts and actions is a compelling motivator.

 

I encourage you to explore the potential of mental pruning. Adapt it, make it your own, and witness its transformative power on your journey toward becoming the person you wish to be. After all, the mind is a garden. It can flourish into a sanctuary of peace and positivity with careful tending.

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The Art of Routine Maintenance: Transitioning from Lawn Mowing to Leaf Collection

Hello, my cherished readers,

 

Summer is bidding us farewell, and as the leaves adopt their autumn hues, it’s clear that my yard maintenance rituals must evolve with the seasons. The final lawnmowing session is just around the corner, leaving a void in my weekly chore schedule. It’s funny, but if I let that void linger, it would likely get filled with some other task—only to be jettisoned again when it’s time to rev up the lawnmower come spring. Such unpredictable interruptions can be the bane of any well-oiled routine, risking its total disintegration. Fortunately, Mother Nature lends a helping hand. As the grass growth halts, the leaves cascade down, offering an obvious segue from mowing to leaf collection.

 

Yet, leaf collection, too, will lose its seasonal relevance, leaving me in search of another activity to occupy that time slot until mowing resumes. You see, disruptions to a routine can be a real headache, but if you can foresee them, it’s easier to soften the blow.

 

This concept of seasonal chore substitution takes me back to my kitchen adventures. If you’ve ever found yourself a key ingredient short while cooking, you know the allure of using a stand-in. But here’s where it gets intricate; a good substitute must fill the missing element’s roles. To illustrate, let’s say you’re making cookies and find yourself walnut-less. You might think, “Ah, walnut extract can do the trick!” True, it will imbue that nutty flavor, but what about the crunch that whole walnuts provide? Throw in some peanuts. But peanuts bring their own quirks, like added saltiness or a different oil content, leaving you with a greasier cookie than you’d imagined.

 

Drawing parallels to yard work, replacing lawn mowing with leaf collection is a logical swap. Both outdoor chores focus on the yard’s upkeep and require similar time commitments. However, there’s a catch. Lawn mowing doubles up as my cardio workout for the day, something that leaf collection, while not a cakewalk, doesn’t quite match in physical exertion. So, I’ll have to supplement this new chore with some extra exercises to meet my fitness needs.

 

The takeaway? Whether in the kitchen or in the yard, an ingredient or task rarely plays a single role in our lives. While there’s usually one primary function that captures our attention, the secondary parts shouldn’t be discounted. Neglect them, and they’ll soon demand to be noticed.

 

So, as you transition from summer to autumn chores—or face any routine disruption, for that matter—remember that the key to a smooth transition lies in identifying the multifaceted roles each activity serves. Finding an adequate stand-in becomes much simpler once you’ve done that.

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The Joyful Side of Routine: How Game Day Keeps Me Balanced

Hello, Lovely Readers,

When discussing routines and habits, I often zero in on the tasks we’d instead not do. You know, those not-so-glamorous chores that are essential but hardly bring us joy. Even though completing them offers satisfaction (mostly because I can finally strike them off my weekly to-do list), I have aspects of my routine crafted for enjoyment. For me, that includes a bi-weekly virtual game day session with some cherished friends.

Growing up, gaming was my jam. Whether it was solo or with pals, I relished the strategic thinking and competitive thrill games offered. However, that intrinsic motivation to play took a hit after my stroke. While I still enjoy games, it’s different now. The solo adventures don’t beckon as they used to, but the social element keeps the fire alive. So, I have these pre-set gaming rendezvous with my old buddies, and it’s a part of my week that I look forward to ardently.

Now, here’s an interesting angle. My wife, my eternal confidante and adviser, shared that engaging in some games could help mend certain brain functions disrupted by my stroke. I feel like I’ve gained some of that therapeutic goodness. But it’s not just about rehab. Knowing I have a gaming session nudges me to be more proactive about my daily chores. It acts as a dangling carrot, a self-awarded prize for slogging through the more mundane parts of my day.

This is something you can adapt to your own life. You know that book you love but have yet to find the time to read? Or that new restaurant you’ve been meaning to try? Let that be your pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Turn your favorite activity into a reward for accomplishing your less thrilling tasks. That way, you don’t just get things done; you also have a tasty incentive.

I’ve employed this tactic before. When I took up running more regularly during my time in Portland, Friday became my doughnut day. Each run I finished during the week equated to a doughnut. Three runs? That translated to three doughnuts waiting for me at home. And because weight loss wasn’t a specific target for me, indulging in my sugary trophy didn’t clash with any other goals.

In the grand scheme of life, blending joy into our routine is crucial for maintaining a balanced life. Especially for me, given my medical history, these game days serve as more than just a leisure activity. They’re an affirmation of my abilities, a balm for my brain, and a reward for the necessary, albeit dull, tasks that fill the gaps in between.

So, next time you find yourself bogged down by the monotony of everyday tasks, remember to sprinkle in a little joy. Life, after all, should be a game we all want to play.

Cheers,