Get A Physical Project

I work in an intellectual world. Writing books. Writing newsletters. Practicing as a pharmacist. While I won’t say these aren’t really cool things I get to do, sometimes it leaves me…lacking for something more.

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There is always more to edit in a book, even once it’s published.

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There is always another newsletter to write-and I love doing that for you!

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We spend a lot of time and energy trying to improve people’s health, and don’t always see a tangible outcome.

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It’s this 3rd point, practicing in the abstract world of healthcare that can really get to me. I work hard at what I do, and I like to see results. A lot of it is outside my control. There is a good portion that is unnecessary box checking too. While I can’t say I have the fix for the white-collar woes of work, I do have an outlet:

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A physical project.

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Have you ever painted a room? Or pulled weeds? Or built something? The feeling after completing what you are doing can be one of the most satisfying things you can experience. I often text my friend after building something with Legos with my kids to something of the effect of “This was more satisfying than anything I have done at work in weeks.”

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Maybe there is something in our DNA that likes to look at a finished product. I don’t know. And maybe I am just too lazy to look up the research. Ironically, I don’t need a bunch of nerds doing an abstract research paper to tell me what I have learned from my grandfather and father-in-law:

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Completing a project feels good.

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So, make an effort to build or fix something. It could be as simple as a puzzle or as complicated as a bathroom remodel. Just get out of your head and into your hands. Then sit back and marvel at the work you have done.

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I promise, it will be satisfying.

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Hey, you read the whole thing! You go, you! If you enjoyed it, please comment or share to help others find it. If you find that a short newsletter just a few times a week isn't enough, why don't you go check out my book, "Permission to Care: Building a Healthcare Culture that Thrives in Chaos"? I also speak to groups! Send me a message if you think I'd be a good fit for your next event. Thanks so much again for reading.