Photo courtesy of Pikaluk 7 Powerful Steps to Overcoming Resistance and Actually Getting Stuff Done
There are a slew of popular books and systems, from favorites of mine such as Getting Things Done
But getting things done is really about one thing, and one thing only: overcoming the resistance to doing what we need to do.
OK, I would add a couple more steps to that, to ensure that we’re managing our tasks correctly:
1. Have all our projects and tasks stored in an external system (out of our heads), such as a to-do list or lists.
2. Pick the tasks and projects that are most important to work on.
3. Overcome the resistance to actually doing those important tasks.
And I would submit it’s the last step that’s the most important (although I wouldn’t ignore the other two). Unfortunately, because we’re not very good at overcoming resistance, we procrastinate on this third step by fiddling with the external system — the tools we use to organize our tasks, coming up with new and better systems, tweaking them until they’re near perfect, and so on.
That’s Resistance.
As Stephen Pressfield writes in his excellent book on this topic, The War of Art
“There’s a secret that real writers know that wannabe writers don’t, and the secret is this: It’s not the writing part that’s hard. What’s hard is sitting down to write.
What’s keeping us from sitting down is Resistance.”
The War of Art
I fight Resistance every single day, and I thought you might be interested in some of the ways I fight and beat Resistance, daily.
1. Become aware. The problem usually is that we don’t think about Resistance. We don’t understand it or even realize it’s there most of the time. We just think, “Oh, I better straighten out my desk … or get my to-do lists in order” or we get distracted by something on the web, or we feel that we have to check our email, or we’re just going to watch this one TV show, or any of a limitless amount of distractions.
Combat this by realizing that you are facing Resistance. Once you become aware of it, you can fight it, and beat it. It can be difficult to become more aware, but the key is to focus on it for a couple of days. Print out the words “Defeat Resistance” and put it somewhere visible as you work. That will help remind you to be aware of Resistance. Every time you do something that isn’t the most important thing you could be doing right now, be aware of what you’re doing.
2. Become a pro. This is the main technique that Pressfield outlines in The War of Art
3. Be very clear, and focus. Before you start the day, be very clear about what you want to accomplish. You won’t be able to finish 10 major projects, but maybe you can finish one important project, or at least move it along to a certain point. Set three Most Important Tasks you want to accomplish today. Once you have those things defined, you’ve got to focus on them to the exclusion of all else (at least, during your prime work time). Do them first. Focus, finish, then move on to the smaller tasks you need to complete today. If you find yourself being lured to do something that’s not on that short list of three things, bring yourself back and focus.
4. Clear away distractions. Don’t spend a lot of time on this, because eliminating distractions can be a distraction itself. Instead, take one minute: close your email program and IM program and turn off all notifications. Shut down the Internet if at all possible. Close all programs except the one you need to do the important task in front of you. Clear your desk quickly (stuff everything in a drawer or something — you can organize it later) and turn off the phones if possible. Put on headphones or alert your coworkers (or family, if you’re at home) that you’re not to be disturbed for the next hour (or however long you plan to work on this task). Then get to work.
5. Have a set time and place. Make your first important task a daily appointment. For me, that’s writing. I always start the day with a writing task (such as writing this post, for example). For you, that might be different. Have a set start time, and possibly a set ending time — you’ll have to see what works for you, but the important thing is the set starting time. And when that time comes, you have to start. No exceptions.
6. Know your motivation. Why are you doing this? Why is this task important? What is it working towards? And how important is that end goal to you? Why is it important? You need to know these things to build up the motivation to overcome Resistance.
7. Just start. In the end, all the tips in the world won’t make as much a difference as this simple (and timeless) instruction. Just sit down and start. Feel Resistance to doing that? There’s no way to overcome it than to just start. Reading more about Resistance won’t help. Going to an online Procrastinator’s Forum won’t help. Working on your to-do lists won’t help. Only doing actually helps. And the only way to do something is to just start.
So how do you start, when you feel resistance? You just start. Feeling the need to do something else? Stop yourself from getting distracted. Remind yourself what you need to be doing, and why. Sit down and the set time and place. And just start.
For me, that means opening up a blank text file and writing the title of whatever I’m writing. Then I start brainstorming and outlining ideas. This gets me over the initial Resistance. And once I’ve started on that, I can usually get into the flow. But the important thing is to get started.
So stop reading this. And just start!
Update: See another great article on this topic just published over at LifeDev.net: Keeping Focus While Beating Back Distractions.
What may be done at any time will be done at no time. - Scottish Proverb
If you liked this article, please share it on del.icio.us or on Digg. I’d appreciate it. :)
- Posted on 21 January 2008 in Productivity & Organization |
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Comments (84)
James Says:
January 21st, 2008, 20:28 pm
The War of Art is a wonderful book. And your adaption to the ZH context is spot on. Thanks for reminding me of the book, and, as usual, helping bring a quick, insightful, portion to springboard off of.
Tina Su - Think Simple Now Says:
January 21st, 2008, 20:36 pm
You are so right Leo, ‘overcoming the resistance to doing what we need to do’ is really the key. I sometimes find myself created excuses so that I can delay action, while feeling nervous on the inside, and potentially guilty for having waited. Why do we put ourselves through that? Why do you think our natural inclination is to resist?
I’ve published a related article on dealing with the guilt we feel after delaying what we need to get done : How to Free Yourself From Guilt
Warmly,
Tina
Daniel Says:
January 21st, 2008, 20:47 pm
Overcoming that resistance is really tough. As I’m still a student in high school, my main resistance is studying or doing homework as I’ve yet to really fall on my face after procrastinating to the very last minute. I know it’s been a while since you were a student, but is there anything you could tell that might motivate me to do it?
Since there’s not really any other place to say this, I’ll just comment here. I stumbled upon your blog by chance… I lazily googled “staying up late” and an article talking about staying up late linked to this site. I explored and started reading about simplifying your life and having goals for each day.
Wow, it was astonishing! My room is so simple now: I removed extra furniture, clothes and clutter and I love how minimalistic it is. I’ve always wanted a simplistic approach, and I transfered that to my room, computer desk and bathroom. Not only that, but a to-do list really gave me goals for the day.
Don’t know what else to say except thank you!
Brett Says:
January 21st, 2008, 20:49 pm
This is exactly what I needed. I’ve been trying to get myself to study for law school but my mind refuses. Thanks for the great post. Over at The Art of Manliness we have a motto that captures the idea in tip number 7: “Just do it, damnit!”
Sometimes the key to success is just getting started.
Bryan K Says:
January 21st, 2008, 20:50 pm
Tina,
I know this is going to hurt, but, please stop doing this. I have been subscribing and reading your blog, but, sometimes, I just feel like leaving your blog.
Every positive, GTD blog that I goes, it always seem to see you leaving comment and stated that you write a related post and put your post link in the comment.
Please stop doing this and I apologise if this comment hurts….
Greg @ Wise Bread Says:
January 21st, 2008, 20:51 pm
I find that once I actually start doing what I’ve been putting off for weeks, more often than not, that task wasn’t as terrible as I thought it would be!
In fact, I get annoyed if I start on a task (that I’ve been putting off) and get interrupted. Once I start I actually want to finish those dreadful tasks.
Now it’s time to stop commenting and start working. :)
Clare @ Shopping Thrifty Says:
January 21st, 2008, 21:09 pm
Resistance is one of my biggest obstacles, so thanks for the enlightening post. As Greg pointed out, dreadful tasks often aren’t as dreadful as we think they will be. Avoidance is a hard habit to break, but becoming aware of the tendency and taking steps to overcome it is a great start.
Jessica Says:
January 21st, 2008, 21:14 pm
Were you just reading my mind? I’m currently “working on” (or procrastinating on) a project. Thanks for the pep talk!
Devan Says:
January 21st, 2008, 22:11 pm
@Bryan K - I actually think it is a _good_ thing that Tina leaves a comment and links back to her own blog. That is what this blog space is all about - people sharing ideas and knowledge. Personally I’d like to see more of it, not less.
Go Tina !!
Tina Su - Think Simple Now Says:
January 21st, 2008, 22:17 pm
Hi Bryan K,
Thank you for sharing your thoughts, I appreciate your honesty. Seriously. :) I apologize if I may have offended you in some way.
To clarify, zenhabits is the only blog I read regularly, so you should only find shared links here. I share links because the readership is so similar to my blog, and I wanted to share things that might be helpful to other readers.
Comment like yours really brings new insight to me and helps me grow. Thank you for that.
Warmly,
Tina
banji Says:
January 21st, 2008, 22:29 pm
That is a very good point that eliminating distraction is a distraction itself. In my opinion, there is another distraction just as important - the planning process.
Some people knows everything there is to know about handling procrastination, yet there are still lots of work undone due to unnecessarily detailed planning.
There’s a saying that “you fail to plan means that you plan to fail”. But I supposed an extension of that quote should be “but if your planning process take forever, it’s better that you fail. At least you learn something from it.”
what do you guys think?
Daryle Says:
January 21st, 2008, 22:44 pm
For me the image of a “gate keeper” works when talking about resistance. When some distraction wants to pull me away from doing the work that will get me closer to my goals it helps me to see said distraction as something that does not want me to accomplish my goal. And for me that creates the motivation I need to overcome that gate keeper and get to work.
I will admit though that the gate keepers win a lot of the time, but that is one trick I use to help over come resistance.
Rose Garden Says:
January 21st, 2008, 22:47 pm
Leo, again thanks for another great article… and a place for your readers to discuss and share their thoughts.
I know not everyone is, but am very (painfully) aware of my own resistance. I always have a list of things that needs to be done, and always gravitate to it before concentrating on my more fulfilling, purposeful projects … If I just cross one more thing off the list, THEN I can start doing what I really want to do… (How’s that for cross purposes of GTD…)
The point in your article that helps me most is to “know your reason” - to give meaning to what you choose to spend your time on. I need that inspiration to put those more meaningful projects ahead of things I “have” to get done first.
My reason will become my new mantra… :)
TheJeffe Says:
January 21st, 2008, 22:51 pm
I find that being very clear and focused is the most important part. Your mind cannot multi-task it is like a computer that has to context switch from process to process. The context switching takes a lot of time.
Another great post Leo!
Lydia Says:
January 21st, 2008, 23:03 pm
I was so happy to have read this post after having worked on a teaching activity all day. I did, however, procrastinate on it all weekend.
Bryan K Says:
January 21st, 2008, 23:08 pm
@Devan - I agree on your view about sharing ideas and knowledge.
@Tina - you have not offended me, just sharing my thought. You have a great blog and your articles seems to get massive digg lately. Just feel that too much link back look to me like trying too hard to self promote….
Anyway, just my humble thought, I may be wrong.
Good luck.
Teresa Says:
January 21st, 2008, 23:14 pm
Another great post!
I usually don’t have a problem procrastinating at work. There’s always way too much to do and not enough hours in the day. But I am a terrible procrastinator when it comes to projects at home - and those are the ones that are usually most important to me.
Schedule a time and place is the tip that hits the nail on the head for me. I started treating my home projects as part of my work day. I wake up early and spend 1-2 hours on personal projects before I go to work. I hate waking up early so it’s hard for me to procrastinate in the morning - it adds a high cost to waking up early. I also extend my work day by one hour when I get home. I spend that hour finishing up any personal projects I didn’t get done in the morning. It allows me to get 2-3 hours a day on my personal projects.
I don’t succeed at it every day. But it helps me get over the hurdle most days.
Nez Says:
January 21st, 2008, 23:19 pm
Thanks for the post, Leo.
For me, no. 6 Know Your Motivation is probably the most important — and I would put that one at no. 1 or no. 2.
I’ve caught myself doing or saying things, after which I ask myself, why did I have to do/say that?
And realizing the motivation might have been misguided, or even petty, I step back to look at the big picture, and I realize I was in the wrong.
Frank GIlroy Says:
January 21st, 2008, 23:44 pm
You and I need to meet one day Leo. I want to personally thank you for all you’ve done for me.
Matt Heinz Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 0:42 am
It’s incredible how many projects, or even simple tasks, I still procrastinate for days, sometimes weeks, but then take me just minutes to finish - and rather easily - once I just get started.
I love to write - and I also hate to write. When I’m in the midst of writing, I absolutely love it. If I can get dedicated time to write, I find myself quite productive. But initiating that time, you’re right Leo, is absolutely the hardest part.
Sonia Simone Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 0:54 am
Great topic, Leo. Resistance is just a killer.
Two things help me. One is sitting meditation–it makes it easier for me to notice resistance and say, “oh, this is just that old thing” and ignore it. The other is time blocking–carving out specific pieces of each day to work on specific projects.
I don’t do too well with the second if I get lax on the first.
Kelly Rigby Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 1:02 am
This post sums up my day. Here in Australia it is 3.48pm and it is one of my work days. My son is at day care and in the next hour or so I have to pick him up.
What I was supposed to achieve today was :
- go to gym ( done)
- put an email subscription on my blog (um……)
- write two posts for my blog (does 2 half, maybe quarter posts count?)
- start on the second draft of a short story I’m writing and planned to submit by February (again nothing)
Instead I have caught up with my dad over coffee, fixed my mum’s computer problems and wandered aimlessly around my house in beween reading other people’s blogs. Some of these deviations have been positive (parents), but most of them are pure procrastination.
What am I resisting when I procrastinate? Personally, I think everyone procrastination and resistance always comes back to FEAR. In my case, I struggle with technical programming tasks and so I avoid them, and when I resist writing it is always because for one reason or another I feel I have nothing original to say.
That is why I am writing this comment instead of those 2 blog posts. I tell myself reading Leo will inspire me to write, but really I’m here due to fear.
I hate it when I know myself so well…
Eugene (Editor, Varsity Blah) Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 1:18 am
I’m so glad you talked about knowing your motivation. Anthony Robbins often talks about reasons coming first (the “why”) and methods coming second (the “how”)
It’s the approach I use for keeping in shape. This is an extract from Work in Progress:
“What’s up with that? Why would anyone not want to invest in something they know will pay dividends a thousand times over? I guess it’s because most people simply have no reason. They think of all the hard work and sacrifice it takes and then simply give up in advance. That’s why it’s important to have a good reason in the first place. Why comes first; how comes second.
“My reasons for living a healthy lifestyle are simple. I want to look as good on the outside as I feel on the inside. Keeping that in mind is the reason I’m able to exercise regularly, even on days I’d much rather stay cuddled up in bed. It’s also the reason I’m able to avoid all those tempting chocolate bars at the supermarket checkout, as much as is humanly possible!”
Working Girl Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 1:58 am
I procrastinate on the stuff I don’t really want to do. Or don’t know how to do (like computer stuff).
Stufff I really want to do, like work on my book, often gets shoved aside by day-to-day things. Is this resistance? I hadn’t thought so. But maybe. . . . . .
Naomi Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 2:44 am
Thank you,
and now, with no further ado, I’m going to stop reading you (excellent) advice and get down to business.
MoonCave Crystals Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 3:14 am
Bryan K/Tina
I read the post as well and for me (just my opinion you see) it does seem a bit inappropriate to use the comment section to directly “compete”, if that is even the right term to use.
I wrote something similar……..sounds kinda like your friend who shows you a killer pair of shoes and you say, “oh yeah, I have something similar, but mine have sparkles and are purple.” Could be construed as one up manship?
Anyway, if we follow the four agreements, we would want to practice being impeccable with our word, not take such stuff personally, certainly not assume the posters intent, and do our best.
Just a thought to throw into the peaceful fray :)
with love and crystal blessings,
Kristi
PainterWoman Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 4:26 am
Brilliant. Have you seen/do you have any thoughts about Jame’s Prochaska’s work, especially his book “Changing for good”?
m_s Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 5:18 am
Off topic, sorry: Do you have any say on what advertising appears in your posts when they’re picked up by Newsgator? I was a surprised to have my reading pleasure disrupted by a trashy ad for an unsecured loan this morning. - which is pretty off-message for the rest of your excellent blog.
I think this might be enough to get me taking my love back to Google Reader after a couple of weeks of using NetNewsWire. I’m going to post about this on Newsgator’s forums too.
James Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 5:47 am
My biggest obstacle to GTD right now is reading too many blogs :(
banji Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 5:51 am
In a way, I guess Nike has been for a long time encouraging this war against resistance with their “Just Do It” :)
If the motto is “Do it”, it will very much sounds like an order, and people don’t respond well to orders. Instead they make it “Just Do It”, simply means after all the resistance and procrastination, all you need to do is JUST DO IT.
I’m analyzing people’s motto now, which means I have wayyy so much time :)
- Resistance is FERTILE is so funny :) -
Leo Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 6:08 am
Thanks for all the great comments my friends!
@m_s: It’s possible to block specific sites from advertising on Google Ads, but it would be way too time consuming for me. Because of your concern, I’ve considered dropping Google Ads altogether, and if my revenues from other ads pick up as much as I hope, I certainly will do so … I hate payday loan ads and other such mercenary sites. At the moment, though, just having quit my day job, I don’t have that luxury … I hope to be able to do so within the next couple months.
@PainterWoman … actually haven’t read that book yet, but sounds interesting!
@MoonCave Crystals: I actually don’t mind Tina sharing her posts, if they’re related and of interest to the rest of you guys. I don’t like spam, but Tina’s posts are of excellent quality, and I don’t mind that at all. I also appreciate your concern, but I never feel like her comments are one-upmanship — she’s a very positive and generous person, and I feel no competition with other bloggers at all. Blogging shouldn’t be a competition — it’s a conversation. :)
Mike Mongo Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 6:23 am
Terrific article. I had to open it in IE to print it because it refused to print in Firefox, but it was worth it. Thanks for posting.
Mark Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 8:33 am
Nice article!
I read “War of Art” about 3 years ago and it changed my artistic life. If it weren’t for that book, I probably wouldn’t have completed (and gotten published) my first picture book. I consider it one of the top 5 books that changed my life, and I always refer it to my creative friends.
Dcrad Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 9:31 am
I have come across this site a few times in my wondering around the internet whilst I was suppposed to be doing something else (ie, I’m in work now and should be doing work, but hey).
One way which I find helps me actually get things done is to internally shout at myself to “JUST DO IT” I find this helps me break through the “gatekeeper” as one poster put it. It doesnt always work but because of the way I’m motivated it seems to be the best option.
Its no good me trying to reason or be nice with myself as I’ll always find a way to talk myself out of doing the task at hand.
Mirko Dokic Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 9:47 am
What I coincidence that I found this site in times where I became so lazy as I am now. And I wasn’t even looking for it.
The points you mention are nice… it made me realize what’s the real reason keeping my from working.
For me, you are the real Zen Master :)
Marc Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 10:32 am
I have a prime example of how procrastinating kicks you in the butt if you do it long enough. ;)
For several months I had planned to check my tire pressure in the one car I don’t drive that often. Due to issues with my other car, I had to drive that car to go and get groceries. After moving the car into the driveway to close the garage door, I heard a loud phooosh and saw the car lean over to the right. My right front tire was completely deflated (even pulling the tire off the rim)! It took me about 2 hours to jack up the car, research on the net what to do if the tire comes completely off the rim, wrap a rope around the tire to push the tire back against the rim and then inflate it with my pump. I also had to delay my shopping trip until the next day.
This all could have been avoided had I checked the tire pressure when I initially had planned too.
Since then I have been fairly good at writing down my three MIT’s and doing them - I learned my lesson with this tire surprise. :)
I think the crucial thing is to not to sit there and think too much about doing something and trying to find reasons not to do it. That’s what always was my problem - in the end I’d come up with “good” reasons to procrastinate about something, but then I’d feel overwhelmed with my long to-do list. :(
Thanks Leo; another awesomely written post! :)
Andrew Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 10:39 am
Yes! Thank you very much for writing this one Leo. This is *the* problem in my life.
Most of the “system” books like those you mentioned gloss over this point. The better ones (like GTD) actually call attention to the fact that they don’t solve this problem.
You have some good ideas here. Wish me luck implementing them.
One you might have missed that I’ve heard can help is to sample your time. Track what you spend your time on, and at the end of the day see how much was Important and how much was Fluff, then try to eliminate the Fluff. Be careful that you don’t allow yourself to become too distracted by the tracking, however.
martin Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 11:03 am
Who was it that said success is nothing more than follow through? Thanks for the post.
Beth @ Unwasted Youth Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 11:37 am
Thanks for this article :) it’s a very good point to mention that often we don’t even realise we’re procrastinating. For me it helps to set a time to start and when it gets to that time, START. Otherwise I just keep putting things off.
Mrs. X Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 11:41 am
Great post, but shouldn’t that kid’s sign read futile?
Jean Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 11:47 am
Leo, it’s wonderful to witness the growth and expansion of your blog. I’ve been AWOL for a few weeks and today find exactly what I needed to read - no surprise :-)
Can you (or any ZH readers) recommend a good resource for an online (FREE) desktop timer? Short of bringing in the egg timer from home, I believe the audio reminder will also assist my efforts in getting “stuff” out of my head and into the project at hand.
Many thanks!
Jean
Thomas Herold Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 12:24 pm
You may also want to check out the Dream Manifestation Wizard, which is a software program that supports you in manifesting your goals and dreams.
More info here:
http://www.dreammanifesto.com
deepali Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 12:48 pm
My problem isn’t Resistance, it’s Paralysis. I can’t even get to the Resistance part! :)
Just a quick question - are the topics on your blog covered in ZTD? I ask because while I appreciate the posts, I need to get the information in a less piecemeal way. I need everything in one place, and then could use the posts on your blog as affirmation. Am I a good candidate for ZTD?
unwired guy Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 12:57 pm
ah
nice article, but shouldnt the first step be “dont waste much time with self-improvement books?”
Zuggu Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 12:59 pm
Nike got it right
“Just Do It”
Thats one of the best advises someone can give you.. besides wearing sunscreen
john doe Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 13:26 pm
…but it was resistance that brought me to this article…
Tom Furman Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 13:38 pm
Very solid information. They say the two drives in life are to run twards pleasure or run away from pain. If you firmly visualize your outcomes on a daily basis, this may solidify your structured approach to the work ethic.
Tom Furman
http://www.physicalstragies.com
The World's Smartest Man Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 13:41 pm
Great post. It can be so difficult sometimes, but you make it feel easy. I like the just do it comment.
Justin Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 13:58 pm
The Going Pro tip appeals to me because that’s my major goal this year. I want to take my art seriously enough to really do it.
If I can share a quote…
“I don’t believe in total freedom for the artist. Left on his own, free to do anything he likes, the artist ends up doing nothing at all. If there’s one thing that’s dangerous for an artist, it’s precisely this question of total freedom, waiting for inspiration and all the rest of it.”
- Federico Fellini
Georgio Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 14:23 pm
Every Star Trek fan would love the photo Leo!
New Scientist magazine published a great couple of articles on procrastination in their Dec 2007 (search their website with the keyword ‘procrastination’) edition. It’s great because its evidence based rather than the anecdotal “7 ways to beat procrastination” personal opinion articles that are often published.
Basically, across multiple studies, the major factors associated with procrastination were:
1) Probability of SUCESS in completing the potential task
2) Degree of UNPLEASANTNESS of the task
3) Degree of DISTRACTIBILITY of the person
4) REWARD for completing the task
The researcher even created a mathematical formula to predict the likelihood you’ll procrastinate based on these factors.
1 can be addressed by choosing GTD or ZTD tasks i.e. those that can be completed in 10 mins or so instead of a “Complete Business Plan” task on your to-do list. 2 can be addressed by your own attitude or working out how the task is beneficial. 3 can be addressed through implementing The Leo’s simplicity and minimising distractions posts. 4 can be addressed by creating meaningful mini-rewards and bigger rewards depending on what’s completed.
I’m implementing the above with fantastic results as its integrated with a points systems suggested by one of The Leo’s commenters when he asked for advice about working from home. I have task rewards, MIT completion rewards, day rewards, and week rewards - I’m on track for a massage, spa, and sauna for being productive over a week - something I’ve not held together yet.
Thanks to The Leo for his awesome advice and forum!
Sonia Simone Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 14:30 pm
@Jean, Adagio teas makes a nice free timer that I use. You need to set up the amount of time for your “tea” in advance, so I just have some “teas” set for 10 min, 20 min, 12 min, etc. It’s very easy to add a new tea. :)
This was posted on 43 folders ages ago, and I’ve used it for maybe 2 or 3 years with no problems.
Jean Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 15:48 pm
Sonia,
Thanks so much for the timer link! I like Adagio’s website too.
:-)
Jean
Zoe Winters Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 15:59 pm
I have a really hard time writing before the house is clean. Usually I just break down and clean first and then write, otherwise I’m too distracted to write. But I know it’s a pointless extra that there will be plenty of time to clean after I write.
Miss Gisele from myBeautyMatch.com Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 16:53 pm
Leo,
Point #7 is crucial. No plan … no matter how great on paper can become successful until you actually take the steps to execute them.
As NIKE has said it so well before: Just do it!
Great inspiration Leo!
Gisele
amypalko Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 17:17 pm
Thank you so much for this, Leo. I really needed this post, as right now I am writing up my phd thesis and I’m really struggling with my motivation. I’m frustrated as I’m so close to finishing, and I just can’t seem to get going on it. After reading your post, I’m going to take all your points on board and just push through my ‘resistance’. Thanks again!
Ian Claudius Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 19:18 pm
“There’s no mystery to turning pro. It’s a decision brought about by an act of will.”
I may be a little biased (see the name of my website), but your article was very refreshing. You’re right; a lot of people avoid facing these problems head on, turning to superficial tricks and lifehacks to solve their problems.
This is not a long-term solution, it is Resistance 2.0. Will is not something that can be hacked.
Tim Wright Says:
January 22nd, 2008, 19:44 pm
From Anne Lamott’s “Bird by Bird”…
“One of the things that happens when you give yourself permission to start writing is that you start thinking like a writer. You start seeing everything as material. Sometimes you’ll sit down or go walking and your thoughts will be on one aspect of your work, or one idea you have for a small scene, or a general portrait of one of the characters you are working with, or you’ll just be completely blocked and hopeless and wondering why you shouldn’t just go into the kitchen and have a nice glass of warm gin straight out of the cat dish. And then, unbidden, seemingly out of nowhere, a thought or image arrives. Some will float into your head like goldfish, lovely, bright, orange, and weightless, and you follow them like a child looking at an aquarium that was thought to be without fish. Others will step out of the shadows like Boo Radley and make you catch your breath or take a step backward. They’re often so rich, these unbidden thoughts, and so clear that they feel indelible. But I say write them all down anyway.”
tim woodhead Says:
January 23rd, 2008, 3:48 am
Thanks great article now have to put it into practisce .
Brother John Says:
January 23rd, 2008, 5:41 am
Great Advice, as usual and great reference. I bought a copy of that book after reading your blog. I honestly think it is one of the most important books ever written and is applicable in all fields. It is also proof of the Zen-like maxim ‘Less is More’. For those who do not have it, it is a slim book that can easily be read in a day (much less for the speed readers), but can also change your life.
I live in Tokyo and if for some reason I had to move back to America and I could only take five books with me, that would be one. And I would keep it in my carry-on to make sure it wasn’t lost. ( I know it is easily replaceable, but my notes in the margins aren’t).
Thanks again Leo and company
Balfour Says:
January 23rd, 2008, 8:49 am
My latest mantra is “done is better than perfect.” I have it above my desk at home and somewhere prominent at my desk at work.
Did I find it here? Definitely recently in some blog or other.
Deerhawk Says:
January 23rd, 2008, 9:08 am
Resistance is fertile. In the realm of political repression, injustice and human rights violations resistance is fertile. But, the advice to just stop making excuses about not doing what needs to be done is absolutely right on.
ZenHabitsLuvR Says:
January 23rd, 2008, 9:29 am
Wow… so you figured out that to get a task done, you have to prevent/fight/alleviate something that is stopping you from doing that task - GENIUS! OMG I wish I was as clever as you. 10 points, bravo.
What a waste of time, I hope you didn’t get paid to write this piffle.
Falcon Says:
January 23rd, 2008, 10:59 am
Hi Leo,
I love your blog! But. . . I’ve gotta take issue with you regarding Procrastinators Anonymous (the “Procrastinator’s Forum” you mention in your post.) I’m sorry to see the forum disparaged, because it’s a tool that CAN help procrastinators work through resistance.
I’ve been helped greatly by the support and encouragement of others struggling with the same kinds of resistance, and especially by using the “check-in/bookend” section of the forum. The idea is to commit to tackling a task, then “check in” later to report on your progress. That little bit of accountability can be great for getting jump-started.
Journey Says:
January 23rd, 2008, 11:25 am
Hi Leo
Also love your blog but have to take a moment to promote the PA site that Falcon mentioned above. If used properly, it’s a great motivator.
I really try to avoid “wasting time on the internet” but I always make time for PA and for your blog of course!
Journey
Richard Rinyai Says:
January 23rd, 2008, 13:57 pm
Try to think of it this way. When you were young, your parents would always ask you to get your homework done before you could go out and play.
It’s the same idea here.
Thanks,
Richard Rinyai
http://www.theprofessionalassistant.net
Robert Says:
January 23rd, 2008, 14:47 pm
Going to an online procrastinator’s forum _can_ help, but it depends on what you do with the information and interaction on the forum. I participated in a lot of GTD online discussions while I was learning GTD and getting it built into my work, and I’ve done the same thing with the procrastination group that I started. (plug: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TheNowHabit/ )
By keeping my efforts to build new habits at the front of my mind, the group keeps me more aware of what I’m doing and what I shouldn’t be doing. I still have good days and bad days, but I’m doing much better on average than I was before I started the group.
Jack Says:
January 23rd, 2008, 17:56 pm
True Intention is know by Attainment.
What’s the motivation?
Whats the intention?
What’s the out come?
How strong is your Motivation? is it focused? Is it True?
How important is the out come?
What happened? Did the cycle (doing the job) get you what you wanted? What is the pay off? If this is strong, then the next cycle will be that much easier.
A place where I falter is not having a big enough pay off (not necessarily $$). So I’m re-working the plan.
JNB Says:
January 23rd, 2008, 17:58 pm
I follow your posts through NetVibes - and haven’t been to your blog until today. Very nice - clean, crisp, well-organized. I look forward to coming back.
I read quite a bit about procrastination, getting things done, getting started, etc….I face the same challenges as others have noted.
However - this past year I went through psychological testing and it turns out I have ADD (attention deficit disorder) - which makes complete sense to me!
All the tools, tips, tricks, etc. in the world only help compensate for what’s happening with my brain chemistry.
I’m trying medication now and looking forward to reduced amounts of procrastination, greater ability to get things started, etc.
So - if any readers suffer from long standing issues surrounding the topics of productivity or organization…dig a little deeper into yourselves. Start to read up on ADD and you might find some interesting answers. Sure has helped me.
Adults are often undiagnosed until they go to have their kids tested….the tendency does seem to run in families….
Danny P Says:
January 23rd, 2008, 18:14 pm
@ Daniel - to our new high school friend who commented above:
Good for you to take steps to simplify and generally improve your approach, no matter what your age!
Your comment about ‘not falling on my face, yet’ is pretty insightful. I, for one, was able to “keep all the balls in the air” through HS and most of college — without a real system or conscience approach to planning or procrastination avoidance. That way of doing things came back to bite me in the butt in a BIG way once I was out on my own and in the professional world.
In short, you are doing yourself a favor by occasionally taking a look now at how you approach your work and your leisure and your attitudes. Good for you!
-D.P.
Ray Says:
January 23rd, 2008, 18:22 pm
I have to echo the compliments you’ve received from other commenters. I, too, am new to your blog. I found it by accident and have thoroughly enjoyed a couple of your articles.
Procrastination is a toughy. As the affirmation guy, people are always asking me to come up with affirmations for issues like this.
There’s one in my short article article and also a reminder that some days, it’s OK not to accomplish anything. Failure only occurs when slacking becomes your habit.
Peace…
Ray
Danny P Says:
January 23rd, 2008, 18:24 pm
@ JNB - re your adult diagnosis of ADD/ADHD:
From personal experience, I agree. I had to deal with some serious anxiety issues that ended up manifesting themselves (mostly) in workplace issues. Turns out that much of these were a result of some ADHD tendencies that I now recognize and manage quite well.
It takes time and trial/error to figure these things out. (And the ability to get over skepticism and embarrasment.)
Don’t dismiss changes in your approach, attitude, tools, (or even medications) just because you think “that can’t be me” or “that is just for ‘those’ kind of people” or “its too simple”. Just thinking out loud….
-D.P.
Ray Says:
January 23rd, 2008, 18:24 pm
Sorry. My linking was not good. The article is called “Cut Yourself Some Slack”.
Ray
Shawn Says:
January 23rd, 2008, 18:24 pm
As a highschool senior, procrastination is one of my biggest challenges to overcome. Whether it’s homework or housework, it’s always there to keep me from completing my tasks. But since I’ve started reading your articles, it’s been increasingly easier to combat procrastination and just get my stuff done. Your articles on simplifying one’s life are always uplifting, and very enjoyable to read. I’ve already begun de-cluttering my room, and I’m loving the results so far. There’s a good reason ZH is the only blog I read regularly. Thank you very much!
Now I’m going to go finish those tasks! ^.^
Shawn
JNB Says:
January 23rd, 2008, 19:42 pm
Danny P - thanks for your comment. I just wanted to say that the diagnosis of ADD was a huge relief - it explained why I had difficulty progressing in my career the way I had expected…among other things.
I do enjoy new notebooks, cool pens, neat websites to keep track of lists, etc, etc, etc. The tips, tricks, ideas, books, are all useful tools to help with the procrastination….but I am very interested to see how the medication might kick start my brain chemistry in a way that all of the other “tools” have failed to do.
I don’t see medication as “the answer”, but I’m very hopeful it will make a difference in a way that all of the “advice” and “tools” have failed to do….
Nick Says:
January 23rd, 2008, 21:23 pm
This is a story about the importance of just getting started. John Steinbeck, the author of Grapes of Wrath and other great books, worked for a time in Hollywood writing scripts. Each morning he used to come in, sit down at his typewriter and just start writing. It didn’t make any difference what he wrote; he just did it to start the process of writing. After his writing was “warmed up,” he would throw everything away and start back in on the script. The person who worked with him always regretted not saving what Steinbeck threw away each day. Still, a good technique to try.
Jason Simon Says:
January 24th, 2008, 2:05 am
Great post! Resistance is futile. An attitude of openness towards difference has become my way of approaching resistance. I write about this concept at http://opentodifference.com
– Jason Simon
think open, think different
Danny P Says:
January 24th, 2008, 10:10 am
@JNB -
Actually, medication has also been a part of the management of my ADHD tendencies. And I hope that you find some results there, as it did greatly help me to add the meds.
There are of course various implications to the medical treatment of ADD/ADHD (particularly with kids). But speaking as a 40-something that is finally starting to turn some things that I use to consider ‘liabilities’ into ’strengths’, it was a great help.
In the meantime, there is a well-procrastinated project calling my name this morning — I *will* go slay it!
Cheers and Courage,
-D.P.
pro Says:
January 26th, 2008, 9:40 am
Good article, but I, too, disagree with the criticism about the Procrastinators Anonymous forum. I created the site, and it’s been very useful both to me and others. It creates community and accountability, counteracting the sense of isolation and aimlessness that so often feed procrastination. Many people have been helped by it. It’s a useful tool.
Summy Says:
January 27th, 2008, 0:31 am
I agree with all your points but you miss one major point to motivation- you have to want to do it. That is the enjoy principle of Success Making Machine.
A simple rule of enjoying work more is:
Do more of what you like and do less of what you don’t like.
rainer Says:
February 3rd, 2008, 17:15 pm
This post is motivating. What you write is simple and true.
To understand the meaning of resistance to do a task is essential for accomplishing projects.
On the other hand I have observed that this recipe only works well with people who have an inclination to plan any- and everything. Stephen Covey is one of my favourite I-have-to plan-everthing-type.
People get their work done in a million different ways, because we are millions of different people. But you always have the feeling, you could have done better or more. These recipes calm the pain they neve cure the disease, because there is no problem.
If people want to get their work done, the will.
If they want success, they should not work hard, they should see to it, that their superior feel comfortable with them.
Jamie Says:
February 3rd, 2008, 20:10 pm
I agree with the quote of Summy:
“Do more of what you like and do less of what you don’t like” Does that sum it up or what?
There is also a good article for women, not as deep as some of the opinions here, but none the less it works. It’s on how women can have a fantastic day just by changing their routine. There is some simple tips to follow and it make sense.
Summy Says:
February 5th, 2008, 20:50 pm
Thanks Jamie.
Do more of what you like and do less of what you don’t like is an important principle of success.
If people made it their mantra they’d be happier and more productive.
Trackbacks (28)
- Keeping Focus While Beating Back Distractions
- Art of the Firebird » Blog Archive » Resistance
- The Borg of GTD » Solo Technology
- Deliggit.com | The social sites' most interesting urls
- 7 Powerful Steps to Overcoming Resistance and Actually Getting Stuff Done | AnyNumberOfThings
- Hurdling over Obstacle 1 « Abra Goes
- Simplify » Blog Archive » Schedule a Time and Place to Get Things Done
- test 01/22/2008 « Strange Kite
- 7 Powerful Steps to Actually Getting Stuff Done
- The Reason Why We Do the Things We Do | NezSez
- Organizing Helps and Tips
- how to truly get things done — common abnormality
- links for 2008-01-23 « David Black
- My daily readings 01/23/2008 « Strange Kite
- Thoughts on Curiosity « The Happy Life
- 7 Powerful Steps to Overcoming Resistance and Actually Getting Stuff Done « Andres Davidovits’ Weblog
- Some useful productivity-related links for all you ADHD’ers out there « Another ADHD Blog
- 7 Powerful Steps to Actually Getting Stuff Done | web500