🐥 the dirt on…how I won’t take care of myself but I will this digital baby bird

On re-entering my Tamagotchi era

and

Jul 02, 2024

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Hello there, Friend.

I like to joke that the reason I’m so good at my job is because I’m so bad at everything it entails. Cooking, drinking water, going to bed at a reasonable hour - none of it has ever come naturally or easily to me.

I’ve had to work really frickin hard to develop habits that nourish me, and even then, I still can be distracted into whimsical chaos by novelty and the promise of a good dopamine surge.

However, I've recently found a loophole in my habit-averse brain, an unlikely source of motivation - caring for a virtual bird.

I recently started using an app called Finch. Finch lets you care for a digital baby bird, rewarding you with coins for completing tasks on your to-do list.

🛏️ Make the bed? Coins.

🦷 Brush your teeth? Coins.

🚿 Finally take a shower? Coins (and the eternal gratitude of my partner).

As someone who grew up on a diet of Tamagotchis and GigaPets, keeping this little dude alive and satisfied quickly became my inner 8-year-olds sole drive.

Every coin earned led to Pip's well-being and happiness. I could buy him new outfits, take him on virtual trips, and even furnish his house (granted, I didn’t always make the best choices - a squirrel costume, a trip to the Alps, and three pairs of animal slippers later, I forgot I’d still never bought Pip an actual bed).

But, even with my silly celebrity spending habits, I was doing something even more important- consistently taking care of myself (and taking out the trash). 🗑️

So here's to Pip 🥂, my unexpected life coach (who I happily have not killed, unlike all his digital predecessors - may they rest in peace 🪦), and cheers to all the weird and wonderful ways we get ourselves to take our supplements, do our laundry, or get out of bed before noon. 🌈

Ciao bella, Andie

🐤 P.S. Want your own virtual pet? Tap this link to get an account (and add Pip to your Finch’s friend group).

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Disclaimer: I am not a doctor or medical provider. The information provided in this document is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any decisions regarding your health.