Years ago, back when I’d been completely off caffeine for some time, a substitute barista at my favorite coffee shop challenged my order. “You want a large decaf, one shot of sugar-free flavoring, and no milk?”
“That’s right. No caffeine, no sugar, and no calories.”
“Why bother?”
“Because I like the social aspect of coming to a coffee shop and having a hot beverage in front of me,” I replied defensively. “Would you rather I took my business elsewhere?”
“It’s called a ‘Why bother?’” she explained.
Hhhmmmm… I suppose if you’re drinking coffee without caffeine, that statement might ring true. In fact, ‘Why bother?’ might ring true in thousands of situations.
Why bother having a diet soda with your cheeseburger and fries?
Why bother getting out of bed on your day off?
Why bother arguing with the boss?
Why bother putting on make-up if you’re not leaving the house?
Why bother cooking for yourself?
Why write a blog when so few are reading clear through your posts?
I could go on and on, ad infinitum. And all of this mind meandering begs the question: Why bother doing anything at all?
What makes us get out of bed in the morning? What moves us to get showered, dressed, and out the door, especially if we’re not collecting a paycheck for doing so? Where’s the magic button that flips the switch to motivate us?
And the answer: I haven’t a clue.