Tricks for Combatting Procrastination | Tim Ferriss | Big Think

Summary

The video script discusses strategies to combat procrastination, emphasizing the importance of setting achievable goals and breaking tasks into manageable parts. It suggests making tasks hyper-specific with timelines, identifying key actions that simplify subsequent tasks, and using techniques like the Pomodoro method for focused work intervals. The script also highlights the power of social accountability through platforms like Stickk.com and the benefits of setting low success thresholds to prevent demoralization and maintain momentum.

Takeaways

• 📈 Start with small, achievable goals to avoid procrastination and make tasks more manageable.
• 🗓️ Set a specific timeline for your goals to make them actionable and to hold yourself accountable.
• 🔍 Break down large objectives into smaller components or 'buckets' to identify actionable steps.
• 🛠️ Use the 'Getting Things Done' methodology to determine the next physical actions needed for each task.
• 🤔 Ask yourself which task, if completed first, will make the rest easier or irrelevant, to prioritize effectively.
• 🦷 Develop new habits by making them as easy as possible, starting with less than you're capable of doing.
• 🎓 Apply the concept of 'tiny homework assignments' to creative projects to maintain momentum and avoid writer's block.
• 📝 Lower your standards initially to prevent performance anxiety and to establish a habit of consistent output.
• 🏋️‍♂️ Set a low success threshold for tasks like exercise to ensure you feel accomplished and motivated to do more.
• ⏱️ Utilize techniques like the Pomodoro Technique to manage time effectively and to maintain focus on tasks.
• 🤝 Create social accountability by using tools or making bets to ensure commitment to your goals.

Q & A

What is the main topic discussed in the transcript?

The main topic discussed in the transcript is procrastination and various tactics to overcome it.

Why is procrastination considered an 'evergreen issue'?

Procrastination is considered an 'evergreen issue' because it is a persistent problem faced by everyone, including successful individuals featured on magazine covers.

What is the first tactic suggested to make a goal more actionable?

The first tactic suggested is to break the goal down into the smallest action conceivable, making it hyper-specific and setting a timeline.

According to the transcript, what is an example of a macro goal and how to make it actionable?

An example of a macro goal is doubling the number of podcast downloads per episode. To make it actionable, set a timeline, such as within six months, and specify the point in time by which the goal should be achieved.

What is the significance of asking 'What are some of the prerequisites?' in the context of the transcript?

Asking 'What are some of the prerequisites?' helps to identify the component pieces needed to achieve the goal, which is a method borrowed from David Allen's approach.

How does the transcript suggest dealing with indecision and a long list of potential tasks?

The transcript suggests asking which task, if done, will make the rest easier or irrelevant. This helps to focus on one piece of the puzzle and reduce indecision.

What is the advice given for starting a new habit like flossing teeth?

The advice given is to make the new habit as easy as possible by starting with a very small action, such as flossing only the front two teeth, and using tools that make the task easier.

Who is BJ Fogg and what principle does he suggest for forming new habits?

BJ Fogg is a researcher who has done extensive work on habit formation at Stanford and elsewhere. He suggests starting with very small actions to make forming new habits easier.

What is the 'two crappy pages per day' advice and who is it attributed to?

The 'two crappy pages per day' advice is attributed to a writer and it suggests setting a very low success threshold for writing to avoid feeling demoralized and to maintain momentum.

What is the Pomodoro Technique and how can it be applied to avoid procrastination?

The Pomodoro Technique involves working in short, focused intervals, typically 20-25 minutes, followed by a short break. It can be applied to avoid procrastination by creating time constraints that force focus and productivity.

What is the Email Game and how can it help with email management?

The Email Game is a tool that forces users to answer emails sequentially, avoiding the inbox view. It can help reduce email clearing time by around 40 percent.

How can positive constraints and social accountability help in avoiding procrastination?

Positive constraints, such as time limits or specific goals, and social accountability, like having someone else hold you to your commitments, can create a sense of urgency and responsibility that helps avoid procrastination.

What is the 'Jedi mind trick' mentioned by Mike Birbiglia to stay on track with his writing?

Mike Birbiglia's 'Jedi mind trick' involves setting a meeting with oneself and treating it with the same seriousness as an external commitment, which can help overcome procrastination.