Gregg Krech, author and leading authority on Japanese Psychology, discusses overcoming procrastination, gaining momentum, and consistently taking action towards goals. The chapter emphasizes stepping out of one's comfort zone and tackling challenging projects, and provides strategies for overcoming procrastination and making decisions based on purpose. They also discuss the concept of Kaizen and developing daily habits to overcome procrastination. The chapter emphasizes recognizing limited time and making time for meaningful tasks. Listeners can find more information about the work being done through various channels.
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Quick takeaways
Taking action based on what needs to be done rather than our internal thoughts and feelings helps us overcome procrastination and uncertainty.
Engaging in self-reflection allows us to align our actions with our purpose, increase productivity, and counteract the negative effects of stress.
Deep dives
Taking Action Consistently Towards Goals
Taking action consistently towards our goals, especially when faced with procrastination or uncertainty, is crucial for making progress. Our decisions should be based on what needs to be done in the world rather than our internal thoughts and feelings. By developing the skill of coexisting with uncomfortable emotions and thoughts, we can take action even when we don't feel like it. Taking small steps through the Kaizen approach, committing to short periods of time or specific tasks, can help build momentum and develop the habit of taking action. It's important to shift our focus from feelings to purpose, allowing us to make choices that align with what needs to be done and positively impact ourselves and others.
The Role of Reflection
Self-reflection plays a significant role in understanding our actions and their impact. Deliberately reflecting on what we received from others, what we gave to others, and the troubles we may have caused helps us make more informed choices. By examining these aspects, we can align our actions with our purpose, leading to increased productivity and satisfaction. Reflection also helps us become aware of stress and its effects on our actions, allowing us to counteract its negative influence by engaging in activities like exercise that contribute to our well-being.
Overcoming Procrastination
Procrastination often stems from relying on our feelings as the main criteria for decision-making. This behavior can be changed by shifting our focus to purpose and the needs of the situation. Taking action becomes a skill that we develop through practice rather than solely through intellectual understanding. By starting with small commitments and gradually increasing momentum, we can overcome resistance and increase our confidence. Recognizing the finite nature of time and the importance of taking action in line with our purpose helps us prioritize meaningful tasks and actively work towards our goals.
Choosing Action Over Inactivity
Inaction is often fueled by stress and a desire to avoid discomfort, leading to unproductive habits and an overall lack of progress. Instead of seeking passive activities for escapism, it is beneficial to engage in physical action that contributes to personal growth and development. By understanding the impact of our actions on ourselves and others, we can make choices that align with our purpose, positively impacting our lives and the lives of those around us. Taking action and consistently making progress is a skill that can be honed through practice and self-discipline, offering us freedom and a sense of accomplishment.
Gregg Krech is an author, poet, and one of the leading authorities on Japanese Psychology in North America. His work has been featured in THE SUN magazine, Tricycle, SELF, Utne Reader, Counseling Today, Cosmopolitan and Experience Life. Krech and his wife Linda are the founders of The ToDo Institute, a non-profit center in Vermont that uses Japanese Psychology as an alternative to traditional Western approaches to psychology. Over the past 25 years, Krech has introduced Japanese Psychology, particularly Naikan Therapy, Morita Therapy and Kaizen, to thousands of people through his workshops and online courses.