Do what you HAVE to do at present to do what you WANT to do in future



In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the rat race and lose sight of our long-term goals and aspirations. However, one of the most important keys to achieving success is the ability to balance short-term and long-term priorities.

To do this, it's essential to understand that there is a distinction between "have to" and "want to" tasks. "Have to" tasks are those that are necessary for our survival, such as going to work or school, paying bills, and taking care of our health. These tasks may not be particularly enjoyable, but they are essential for our well-being and survival.

On the other hand, "want to" tasks are those that bring us joy and fulfillment, such as pursuing hobbies and interests, spending time with loved ones, and traveling. These tasks may be more enjoyable, but they are not essential for our survival.

So how do we balance these two types of tasks? The key is to focus on the "have to" tasks first, and then make time for the "want to" tasks. By taking care of the necessary tasks first, we ensure that our basic needs are met and that we have the resources and time to pursue our passions and dreams.

How to be successful at "have to" jobs?

• Being successful at "have to" work, which refers to tasks that are necessary for survival, such as paying bills or going to work, requires a combination of discipline, strategy, and positive mindset. Some ways to achieve this include: setting clear goals, prioritizing tasks, creating a schedule, staying organized, staying focused, taking breaks, finding meaning in the work, maintaining a positive attitude, keeping learning and finding support. By following these strategies, you can increase your chances of success in "have to" work and find ways to make it more meaningful and fulfilling.
• It is important to have a clear idea of what you want to accomplish and set SMART goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound. Prioritizing tasks will help you to stay on track and manage your time effectively. Creating a schedule for the day or week in advance and sticking to it can help you stay on track.
• It is also important to keep your workspace clean and tidy and have all necessary materials and tools in a place where you can easily find them, this can help you work more efficiently and minimize distractions. While it is important to stay focused, it is also important to take breaks and give your mind a rest, take regular breaks and use the time to do something you enjoy.
• Connecting the work you are doing to a larger purpose or goal can help you find motivation and a sense of purpose in the work that you are doing. Maintaining a positive attitude and focusing on the good things about the work, can help in keeping morale high. Keep looking for opportunities to learn new skills or take on new responsibilities that can make the work more interesting and challenging.
• If you are struggling with maintaining motivation, don't hesitate to seek help. Talk to your boss, colleagues, or a therapist, they can offer support and guidance. Remember that success at "have to" work requires focus, discipline, and a positive attitude, but with time, it can become a daily habit that helps you towards achieving larger goals and aspirations.

Increase your mental bandwidth

This doesn't mean that we should neglect our "want to" tasks altogether. In fact, it's important to make time for these tasks, as they provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment that is essential for our well-being. However, it's crucial to prioritize the "have to" tasks and make sure that they are taken care of first.

One way to do this is to set goals and create a schedule that allows you to balance your "have to" and "want to" tasks. This can involve breaking down your goals into smaller, manageable steps and working on them each day. It's also important to set aside dedicated time for your "want to" tasks, such as scheduling a weekly hobby or interest class.

In conclusion, achieving success and fulfillment in life is about striking a balance between "have to" and "want to" tasks. By focusing on the necessary tasks first and making time for the things we love, we can ensure that we are meeting our basic needs and laying the foundation for our future goals and aspirations. It's about being consistent and disciplined with the present that will set the path to reach the future we want.