The Hidden Hazard of Work-to-Do-Work: Tackling Procrastination's Evil Twin

I'll be honest with you - creating this blog post took longer than expected, mainly because I got sidetracked by all the little tasks that needed to be done before I could even start writing. Sound familiar? In my latest episode of The Third Power Life Podcast (available on Spotify, iTunes, and wherever you listen to podcasts), we dive into the concept of "work-to-do-work" - a sneaky obstacle that can prevent us from making progress towards our goals.

For those who haven't listened to the episode yet, work-to-do-work refers to all the tasks that need to be done in order for us to actually do the work we set out to accomplish. Think of it like this: I wanted to record a podcast episode, but before I could start talking, I had to organize my papers, move some files, and make sure everything was in its place. It might not seem like much, but these tiny tasks can quickly add up and become the primary focus of our day - instead of the actual work we need to do.

What I love about this concept is that it's a crucial insight into the procrastination cycle. When we put off doing something because it feels overwhelming or too complex, we often find ourselves getting bogged down in all the little things that need to be done before we can even start. This is exactly what happened with me while recording the podcast episode - instead of focusing on the main task at hand, I spent way more time than expected getting everything ready.

So, how do we overcome this hidden hazard? The solution lies in planning and preparation. By anticipating the tasks that need to be done before we can start working, we can break them down into manageable chunks and schedule them accordingly. This means setting aside dedicated time for pre-work, whether it's organizing our space or doing some research beforehand.

For example, if I know I'm going to record a podcast episode tomorrow, I'll make sure to set aside 45 minutes not only for recording but also for any necessary prep work - like reviewing my notes or getting everything organized. By doing so, I can ensure that I stay on track and avoid getting sidetracked by the little things that often derail us.

If you're struggling with work-to-do-work in your own life, I'd love to hear about it! Share your experiences and tips for overcoming this obstacle in the comments below. And if you want to take your time management skills to the next level, be sure to sign up for my upcoming 5-day challenge on using AI to automate parts of our lives - more details coming soon!

Find Your Purpose and Connect with a Community of Like-Minded Individuals

If you're looking for support and guidance in uncovering your purpose and making meaningful progress towards your goals, consider joining The Round Table at Third Power Performance (https://www.ThirdPowerPerformance.com/round-table). Our program provides a safe space to explore your passions, overcome obstacles, and connect with others who share similar aspirations. Don't let work-to-do-work hold you back any longer - join us today!