ASSUAGE

Finishing a dreaded but necessary report assuages the disgruntlement -- at least until the next one.

DEF:

1. To make (something burdensome or painful) less intense or severe: assuage her grief. See Synonyms at relieve.
2. To satisfy or appease (hunger or thirst, for example).
3. To pacify or calm: assuage their chronic insecurity.

(American Heritage)