When I wrote The Vortex, I was of half a mind. The piece felt somehow incomplete–as day without night, protein without carbs, or winning without trying. Some people misunderstood, believing that I espoused a frantic, self-abnegating life. So today, I write this piece with the other half of my mind.
First, I submit to you that “having fun” is as important as “working hard.” Some people might be reminded of the platitude “Work hard. Play hard.” But I never much liked how that sounded. Certain words have a certain feel, and “playing hard,” to my mind, seems to imply some sort of reckless abandon–like drinking all Sunday night despite your Monday morning presentation that you just finished preparing for. No, if you’re going to goof off, don’t undo the gains you worked so hard to acquire!
For example, when I get back from the gym, I don’t stuff my face with bagels or donuts as reward; I have my hard-boiled egg or wheat toast, and reward myself with a few pages of manga.
After I finish my writing for the night, I don’t go out drinking which would frustrate my productivity the next day (unless maybe it’s Saturday); I treat myself to a little time on the Wii U.
When I’ve completed my errands for the week, I don’t splurge on an expensive dinner (not usually anyway), which would shrink my bank account and grow my gut; I have my favorite green vegetable juice and maybe go watch a movie with my girlfriend.
So I get my work done, but I still get to enjoy my movies, my manga, and my video games. Goofing off after buckling down helps to achieve balance while reminding your nervous system that taking right action pays off. And goofing off efficiently means doing so in a way that doesn’t run counter to achieving your goals.
Choose to Take the Journey 
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