Module 3 Flashcards
How can you avoid procrastination?
By minimizing distractions, changing your reaction to cues, and using habits to override procrastination.
What are the four key components of a habit?
Cue, Routine, Reward, and Belief.
What is the first step to overcoming procrastination?
Recognize the cues that trigger procrastination.
How can you identify your procrastination cues?
Cues usually fall into categories of location, time, feelings, or reactions to other people or events.
How can shutting off your cell phone help with procrastination?
It prevents distractions during focused work sessions, such as when using the Pomodoro technique.
What is a good method to override procrastination routines?
Rewire your habits by developing a new ritual or routine, like leaving your phone in the car.
What is the Pomodoro technique?
A time management method that involves working for 25-minute intervals followed by short breaks.
Why is reward important in overcoming procrastination?
Rewards help reinforce new habits by providing a positive emotional payoff for accomplishing tasks.
What kind of rewards can help you overcome procrastination?
Small rewards like a cup of coffee or even allowing yourself to have an emotional victory are great. Larger ones like a movie ticket can also help reinforce progress on larger acheivements.
What is the role of belief in overcoming procrastination?
Belief in your ability to succeed is crucial for sticking to new habits and systems.
How can a supportive community help with procrastination?
Being around like-minded individuals can encourage you to stick to your goals and overcome setbacks.
What should you do to prepare for your day of work?
Write a daily task list the evening before so your brain can process the tasks overnight.
What benefits come from writing a daily task list?
It helps free your working memory, so you can focus on problem-solving and tasks rather than remembering what to do.
How should you approach big tasks when planning?
Break them down into smaller, manageable chunks that can be accomplished within a limited time frame.
Why is quitting time important?
It allows for healthy leisure and prevents burnout, contributing to better long-term productivity.
What does Cal Newport recommend for managing time?
He recommends setting a quitting time, like 5 pm, to maintain a balanced schedule.
What is the benefit of ‘eating your frogs’ first?
It means tackling your most important and least enjoyable task first, increasing productivity for the rest of the day.
Why should you plan for interruptions or unforeseen events?
It helps maintain flexibility and ensures you stay on track despite setbacks.
What is the role of small challenges in productivity?
Breaking tasks into small challenges helps avoid overwhelm and keeps motivation high.
How do rewards affect habit formation?
Rewards create neurological cravings that help solidify new habits and override old ones.
Why is it important to trust your new system?
Trust in your system allows you to focus during work time and genuinely relax during breaks.
How does mixing different types of tasks help with motivation?
Mixing tasks, including physical tasks, can keep you engaged and prevent burnout from prolonged focus on one thing.
How does writing tasks down in advance help with procrastination?
It lets your subconscious work on the tasks, making them easier to tackle when you start working.
What should you do if you find yourself procrastinating?
Use your backup plan to redirect yourself back to work, acknowledging that no one is perfect.