Below is a 3 minute video that explains the basic science behind procrastination. While the science behind it can be quite technical, this short video explains it very well with help of animations. And it’s very entertaining.
In the video the Pomodoro Technique is provided as a way to combat procrastination. Another technique we want to add to that is Solar Flaring. Both use time boxing techniques and forward momentum to overcome procrastination.
In the end, it’s all about being intrinsically motivated so you’ll take the right action most of the time (that’s how Will Smith does it). The imposed technique of setting deadlines does work (as suggested in the video), but we would caution you to be very careful with this. When misused, you will unnecessarily put a lot of stress on yourself and that totally kills motivation.
Once you understand how procrastination works, you’ll become a lot better at recognizing and overcoming it. If you are interested in the science and you want to read more about this topic, we can recommend The Willpower Instinct, Procrastination by Jane Burka and The Now Habit.
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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
This is an awesome video! I love this style – great info and worth watching!
Meggin
This is excellent! I teach at a university and will be passing this on to my students!
Excellent video! A lot of people procrastinate because they don’t know the exact reasoning behind why they do it. Accepting that we are not in full control of how our brain functions is the first step in finding ways to fight procrastination. Sometimes it necessary to set up obstacles in your favor and in advance just like the video implies. I really enjoyed watching this and I’ll be sure to share it with everyone!
Thanks Will! Totally agree with you and thanks for sharing around.
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