In what ways does hard work make you feel fulfilled?
Smart work allows me to be fulfilled. I have never really been a blue collar worker so the benefit of my toil is not apparent to me. A hard day of working in the yard or even doing a repair has its reward .
I can only pat myself on the back. And stride confidently through the day.
I am a problem solver. Working on a complex algorithm and solving it, allows me to walk with a bounce in my step. I write short stories and upon completion I have a sense of accomplishment. If an editor decides they want to publish it takes it to another level. There is actual evidence of my hard work.
Which brings us back to endorphins. A nice hard run for me fills me with enlightenment and insight. A long hike in the woods much the same. After an overdose of endorphins food tastes better, music more melodic and sleep comes easily.
Play hard.
The Side Effects of Endorphins 