Have a highlight every day

For some time now, whenever I schedule daily tasks, I also remember to include a highlight - something enjoyable that will add meaning to the day.

I got this idea from Jake Knapp and John Zeratsky's Make Time: How to Focus on What Matters Every Day. I've read a lot of productivity books over the years, but this piece of advice has stuck with me the most. A highlight represents something that I will gladly do after the day's work is completed and something by which I will remember the day. It is usually unrelated to work, and it should bring me joy rather than others.

The authors suggests some questions you can ask yourself to figure out what your highlight might be:

“When you look back at your day, what activity or accomplishment or moment do you want to savor?”

“When I reflect on today, what will bring me the most joy?”

My highlights are usually related to doing something creative, as well as reading, going for walks, trips to the library, or baking.