Dr. Tim Pychyl, an expert on procrastination and productivity, joins Mike to discuss strategic delaying, task-based productivity, finding meaning in productivity, and the role of self-discipline in overcoming procrastination.
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Quick takeaways
Balancing meaning and manageability is crucial for productivity, addressing lack of purpose and structure at different stages of a project.
Context and task-based approaches provide valuable insights, emphasizing relevance, energy levels, and specific actions.
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Managing Meaning and Manageability in Productivity
When it comes to productivity, balancing meaning and manageability is crucial. At different stages of a project, different factors may hinder progress. During the planning stage, lack of meaning or purpose can impede action, while during the action stage, a lack of structure or clarity on next steps can be a barrier. Being aware of where a project is situated can help address these challenges effectively. Additionally, understanding one's core values and goals can provide the motivation needed to overcome resistance. Self-talk, such as reminding oneself to just get started, can also be helpful to combat negative emotions and procrastination tendencies. Ultimately, finding a balance between meaning and manageability is key to maintaining productivity.
Context and Task-based Approaches to Productivity
Context and task-based approaches offer valuable insights into productivity. Context-specific systems, such as the Getting Things Done (GTD) approach, help individuals focus on specific action steps within relevant contexts. By categorizing tasks based on energy levels or specific environments, individuals can better allocate their time and energy. Task-oriented approaches, like the 'what's the next action?' mindset, emphasize completing specific actions rather than focusing solely on time constraints. The key is to find a balance between managing the tasks at hand and reflecting on the broader context, aligning energy levels, priorities, and time constraints effectively.
Learning from Children and Embracing Self-Forgiveness
Observing children's natural task management abilities offers valuable lessons for productivity. Children often demonstrate focused attention, persistence, and lack of concern for time constraints when pursuing tasks. Embracing a similar mindset can be beneficial for adults. Additionally, self-forgiveness plays a crucial role in productivity and self-discipline. Accepting that mistakes and setbacks are part of the learning process allows for self-compassion and the motivation to try again. Balancing self-discipline with self-forgiveness creates a more sustainable and growth-oriented approach to productivity.
In this episode, Mike has a candid conversation with Dr. Tim Pychyl about procrastination, strategic delaying, and what can get in the way of our productivity no matter what technology or approach we use. Relevant Links http://amzn.to/1zQHlHm (Me, Myself, and Us: The Science of Personality and the Art of Well-Being by Brain R. Little) http://amzn.to/1umQZO6 (Made to Stick by Dan & Chip Heath) Want to read this book efficiently and effectively? Get this book in "Cliff's Notes" format with http://jump.blinkist.com/aff_c?offer_id=2&aff_id=1189 (Blinkist) http://amzn.to/1yR6wuU (Solving the Procrastination Puzzle by Dr. Tim Pychyl) http://http-server.carleton.ca/~tpychyl/ (Procrastination Research Group) https://itunes.apple.com/ca/podcast/iprocrastinate-podcast/id129144284?mt=2 (iProcrastinate podcast) http://twitter.com/procrastwitate (Dr. Tim Pychyl on Twitter) Want to send Mike an app, book, or something similar to discuss on the show? Email him at info@productivityist.com and he'll give it a look. Want to listen on Stitcher? http://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=53149&refid=stpr (Click here.) Support The Productivityist Podcast by becoming a patron! http://www.patreon.com/Productivityist (Click here) to visit The Productivityist Podcast's Patreon page and see what perks await those who pitch in a buck or more.