How To Stop Procrastinating

Summary

The speaker emphasizes the importance of action over the concept of 'trying,' suggesting that trying is a middle ground that often prevents actual doing. They argue that confidence comes from overcoming failure, not success, and encourage embracing the present moment as the only true reality. The transcript critiques future-oriented thinking, which can lead to procrastination and anxiety, advocating instead for immediate action and control over one's mindset.

Takeaways

• 🚶 There is no 'first step' in the traditional sense; every step you take is the current step, emphasizing the importance of the present moment.
• 🏋️ Don't 'try' to do something; instead, either do it or fail, as both outcomes are preferable to inaction.
• 💡 Failure is not just acceptable but can also be a source of confidence, as it shows you can survive and learn from setbacks.
• 🤔 Success does not necessarily lead to confidence; it's the experience of failure and recovery that builds self-assurance.
• 🌳 The concept of 'future' is an illusion; actions that make a difference are those taken in the present.
• 🌱 Small, immediate actions, like planting a tree, are more effective in addressing issues like climate change than distant plans.
• 🧘‍♂️ Mindfulness and being in the present is crucial to avoid the pitfalls of overthinking and procrastination.
• 🤷‍♂️ The 'future thinking mind' should be controlled and not allowed to dictate actions or create anxiety.
• 🎯 Setting schedules and planning for the future can be helpful, but it should be balanced with present action.
• 🛑 Procrastination is often a result of an overactive 'future thinking mind' that postpones tasks to a non-existent future.
• 🔄 The problems of the mind, such as anxiety, stem from normal mental functions that have taken control away from us.

Q & A

What is the main point the speaker is trying to make about taking action?

The speaker emphasizes that there is no such thing as a 'first step'; every step is the current step, and one should not delay action by thinking about the future. The focus should be on doing something in the present rather than planning for a future attempt.

Why does the speaker say 'trying is the problem'?

The speaker argues that 'trying' is a middle ground that prevents people from actually doing or failing, which are the only two outcomes that lead to learning and growth. 'Trying' is seen as a form of procrastination and a barrier to taking real action.

How does the speaker define confidence and how is it gained?

The speaker defines confidence as something one gains through failure, not success. It is the ability to survive setbacks, get back up, and continue moving forward that builds confidence.

What is the speaker's view on the relationship between wanting things and happiness?

The speaker suggests that even if one accomplishes their desires, it does not guarantee happiness. The key is to be present and take action rather than being preoccupied with future wants.

What does the speaker mean by 'the future is an illusion of the mind'?

The speaker means that focusing on the future can lead to inaction and anxiety. The future is not real and cannot be controlled; it's the present where actions and decisions are made and where problems are solved.

Why does the speaker say that every step is the first step?

The speaker is advocating for the idea that there is no distinction between a 'first step' and any other step. Each step should be taken with the same level of commitment and urgency, emphasizing the importance of the present moment.

What is the speaker's advice on dealing with the future-oriented thinking?

The speaker advises that future-oriented thinking should be under one's control. It should be used when necessary, like scheduling, but not allowed to dominate one's actions or cause procrastination.

How does the speaker relate the concept of 'trying' to procrastination?

The speaker relates 'trying' to procrastination by suggesting that both involve deferring action to a non-existent future. They both prevent individuals from taking immediate action and experiencing the outcomes of doing or failing.

What does the speaker suggest is the root of anxiety?

The speaker suggests that anxiety is a result of overblown future thinking, where potential consequences in the future are exaggerated, leading to stress and inaction.

How does the speaker view the role of discipline and willpower in achieving goals?

The speaker implies that discipline and willpower are important but not the starting point. Instead, one should focus on taking action in the present and understanding the reasons behind failures to build discipline and willpower.

What is the speaker's perspective on the role of motivation in taking action?

The speaker seems to suggest that motivation is not the primary driver for action. Instead, one should act regardless of motivation and reflect on failures to understand what truly hindered progress, such as lack of discipline or willpower.