The Now Habit
Strategies to beat procrastination and enjoy a balanced, productive life.
Summary of 7 Key Points
Key Points
- Understanding Procrastination
- Creating Safety Nets to Start
- Using the Unschedule
- Controlling the Workspace
- Dealing with Overwhelming Projects
- Learning to Enjoy Guilt-free Play
- Maintaining Success with Procrastination
key point 1 of 7
Understanding Procrastination
Understanding procrastination as depicted in the work begins with recognizing that it is not a character flaw or a sign of laziness, but a complex psychological behavior that is often a misguided response to stress. It is presented as a mechanism for coping with the fear of failure, fear of success, fear of being imperfect, and fear of impossible expectations. The author argues that procrastination is a habitual response to stress that can be unlearned with effort and persistence…Read&Listen More
key point 2 of 7
Creating Safety Nets to Start
Creating safety nets in the context of overcoming procrastination involves establishing a system of practices and beliefs that supports an individual in starting tasks promptly and with less anxiety. These safety nets are designed to reduce the fear of failure and the overwhelming pressure that often leads to procrastination. By creating a psychological safety net, individuals can feel more comfortable taking the initial steps towards task completion, knowing that they have buffers and strategies in place to handle setbacks and challenges…Read&Listen More
key point 3 of 7
Using the Unschedule
The Unschedule is a time management tool that prioritizes non-work activities in order to create a more balanced and productive schedule for individuals who procrastinate. By filling in your calendar with recreational and leisure activities first, the Unschedule aims to ensure that these important activities are not neglected. This approach differs from traditional scheduling methods that typically focus on work tasks first, often leading to a cycle of procrastination due to a lack of balance and increased pressure…Read&Listen More
key point 4 of 7
Controlling the Workspace
Controlling the workspace is emphasized as a critical factor in enhancing productivity and overcoming the habit of procrastination. The book advocates for a workspace that is free from distractions and dedicated solely to work. This approach is rooted in the psychology of creating a mental association between the space and the act of working, which can trigger a productive mindset once one enters that space. A clear boundary between work and leisure areas helps individuals switch to a work-oriented frame of mind more quickly and reduces the temptation to engage in non-work activities during work hours…Read&Listen More
key point 5 of 7
Dealing with Overwhelming Projects
Dealing with overwhelming projects involves a shift in perspective from a focus on finishing to a focus on starting. The author emphasizes the importance of beginning tasks by breaking them down into small, manageable steps. This process, referred to as ‘the unschedule’, advocates for scheduling leisure and reward time first, ensuring that work is broken up with breaks and recreation. By doing so, the individual can avoid the cycle of procrastination and guilt associated with not working on the overwhelming project. The unschedule also helps in recognizing the amount of free time one actually has, which can be quite motivating…Read&Listen More
key point 6 of 7
Learning to Enjoy Guilt-free Play
In ‘The Now Habit’, the concept of guilt-free play is presented as a foundational element for overcoming procrastination and enhancing productivity. The author argues that guilt-free play is not a reward for work; instead, it’s a vital component of a healthy work-life balance. According to the perspective outlined in the book, play is an activity that is enjoyable, freely chosen, and offers a sense of engagement and escape from the daily grind. The author emphasizes that when individuals allow themselves to engage in play without feeling guilty, they can return to their work with increased energy and a clearer mind, which in turn boosts efficiency and creativity…Read&Listen More
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Maintaining Success with Procrastination
In ‘The Now Habit’, the perspective on maintaining success with procrastination involves a strategic approach to transforming one’s relationship with time and work. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the reasons behind procrastination and addresses the fear of failure, perfectionism, and the overwhelm that often leads to putting off tasks. The author advocates for a shift in thinking from a focus on ‘finishing’ to ‘starting,’ suggesting that the latter takes off the pressure and can lead to a more productive workflow…Read&Listen More