The Value of Action- Even Without Immediate Reward

There are times in life when we may feel that we aren’t being fairly compensated for our efforts. This may be in the context of paid work, where the compensation doesn't reflect the level of investment, or in other situations where we expect appreciation for what we’ve done, but there is no recognition or not to the degree we hoped. In such circumstances, we may lose the motivation to continue acting or contributing.

It’s important, however, to distinguish between the valid pursuit of fair compensation, and the natural yet misguided reaction of ceasing to act altogether. It's crucial to understand that inaction is not an fitting response to dissatisfaction. In fact, inaction comes with several significant drawbacks, proving that continued effort is the better path.

Why Action is Preferable, Even Without a Reward

Even if we don’t receive the compensation or recognition we feel that we deserve, inaction will always yield worse outcomes. Every moment of inaction is a missed opportunity- one that will not return. If we avoid action in that moment, we waste the chance to grow, contribute, and move forward.

Every time we choose not to act- even if the reason seems justified- we train ourselves to remain inactive. The compensation may not be adequate, but if we grow accustomed to avoiding action, we may continue avoiding it even when there's no justification for doing so.

It's important to recognize that action has intrinsic value, regardless of the reward. Every act develops our abilities and prevents our “action muscle” from deteriorating. We must never give up, even when we feel underappreciated.

An Ancient Example: Joseph in Prison

In the Midrash (Shir HaShirim Rabbah), it's told that Joseph, during his time in an Egyptian prison, would fill barrels with water and then empty them for no purpose. This was so that he wouldn’t fall into a state of inaction.

Joseph understood, with great wisdom, that action has absolute value, even when it seems useless and even when it brings no external reward. Through action, we preserve our capabilities, our potential, and our positive habits. When the right opportunity comes, we can then translate those habits into meaningful and productive outcomes.

When Action Isn’t Productive

In many cases a person may be extremely busy from morning to night, and yet their actions aren’t truly effective. This is because they are not acting based on the correct priorities. They are investing time in unnecessary tasks and neglect those that truly matter.

This often happens when the essential tasks are difficult or unpleasant, and we therefore avoid them in favor of tasks that are easier and more enjoyable- even if they aren't important.

The Illusion of Being Busy

Indeed it is easier to do things we aren’t obligated to do than to face the duties we must fulfill. As the saying goes: “A person can accomplish anything- so long as it’s not what he’s supposed to be doing.” Our sages taught: “Greater is the one who is commanded and acts than one who acts voluntarily.” It’s harder but more meaningful, to act when duty demands it.

There are two forms of procrastination:

1. Conscious Procrastination

We know full well that the tasks we’re doing are unimportant or unnecessary, but we do them to avoid facing the tasks we’re actually responsible for. This is a kind of deliberate delay.

2. Unconscious Procrastination

We aren’t aware that we’re wasting time and we’d confidently say that we’re doing essential work, although in truth, more important tasks are being delayed because of our misplaced efforts.

A common form of unconscious procrastination is convincing ourselves that a certain task “won’t take long,” when objectively, it consumes hours that could have been spent on crucial obligations.

The Root of Procrastination

Essentially, procrastination reflects a disconnect between action and purpose. A person who focuses on activity without linking it to a clear goal, will drift from their true priorities and waste time on unproductive efforts.

A person who acts with clear purpose, however will check in with themselves by asking, “What is this action aiming to achieve?”, thereby staying focused and productive and moving toward their goals.

Learning to Say "No"

Avoiding procrastination also requires the courage to say “no” to tasks that are unnecessary or unimportant, because they inevitably come at the expense of more critical responsibilities. Some people find it difficult to turn down these unassigned tasks and as a result, delay their true obligations.

The better we become at declining unnecessary tasks, the more we’ll succeed at completing the meaningful and essential ones that truly advance us toward our life goals.