Balancing Self — and External Rewards

As a founder immersed in the dynamic world of remote work, flexible hours, and international client management, I’ve come to realize the pivotal role that self-reward plays in maintaining focus, resilience, and sustained high performance. In this blog, I’d like to share my insights on the delicate balance between self-reward and external recognition, and how mastering this balance has become a game-changer in my entrepreneurial journey.

The Struggle and the Revelation

Navigating the entrepreneurial landscape, especially in the context of a remote work environment, brings its unique set of challenges. The freedom to work from anywhere, at any time, is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it provides unparalleled flexibility, but on the other, it demands a higher level of self-discipline and motivation.

Early on, I found myself relying heavily on external rewards — the tangible outcomes that society often celebrates: client praise, project completions, and financial success. However, I soon discovered the potential pitfall of this approach. External rewards trigger a surge of dopamine, the brain’s feel-good neurotransmitter, creating an instant sense of accomplishment. While this may seem gratifying, it can also lead to a premature satisfaction that hampers long-term growth.

The Importance of Pushing Through Pain Points

One key lesson I’ve learned is the necessity of pushing through pain points. Whether it’s tackling challenging projects, overcoming setbacks, or simply resisting the urge to procrastinate, self-discipline becomes the linchpin of success. By setting big goals and breaking them down into manageable tasks, I’ve found that each small achievement becomes an internal reward — a personal triumph that fuels motivation.

Rewiring the Brain

The quest for self-reward is not about denying external validation but rather about rewiring the brain to find joy and satisfaction in the journey itself. Creating a mindset where every step forward is a victory helps buffer the natural inclination to quit when faced with adversity. It’s a shift from seeking constant external approval to cultivating an internal sense of fulfillment.

The Founder’s Uphill Climb

As a remote founder, juggling responsibilities across time zones and cultures, the struggle to stay on track is real. I’ve faced moments of doubt, fatigue, and the allure of taking the easy way out. Yet, by focusing on what truly matters in the long run and diligently putting in the work, I’ve witnessed a remarkable upward curve in my productivity and overall satisfaction.

Creating a Sustainable Growth Path

The key to creating a sustainable growth path lies in self-awareness and intentional self-reward. Celebrating small victories, acknowledging progress, and finding joy in the process foster an internal drive that transcends external circumstances. By doing so, we not only accumulate energy and focus for the tasks at hand but also build resilience against the inevitable challenges of entrepreneurship.

Conclusion

In the ever-evolving landscape of remote work and global entrepreneurship, mastering the art of self-reward is a transformative journey. By understanding the delicate balance between internal and external validation, I’ve not only become a more resilient founder but also discovered the untapped well of motivation within myself.

As you embark on your own entrepreneurial adventure, remember: the more you can self-reward in the right direction, the more you’ll be equipped to push through the pain points and propel yourself towards sustained high performance.