Energising vs un-energising tasks

Energising Vs Un-energising Tasks

Do you ever feel pumped for those big dream projects but completely stuck on the minor tasks that should be a doddle? You’re not alone. It’s easy to get fired up about the fun stuff then lose all momentum when a simple phone call or five-minute errand lands on your to-do list.

In this podcast episode, we explore why we often jump headfirst into passionate endeavours yet procrastinate the smallest jobs. You’ll discover practical ways to move forward, handle those pesky tasks, and keep your creative spark alive. It’s all about balancing the thrill of big goals with the reality of everyday responsibilities.

Why We Love Big Projects

Huge ideas can feel like a giant magnet, pulling us in. They’re exciting, imaginative, and filled with possibility. If you have a brain wired for creativity or neurodiversity, these grand projects might light a fire in you.

Big wins also make us feel successful. It’s natural to want that rush of energy that comes from tackling something difficult. However, if we only chase the big stuff, things like paying a bill or sending a quick email can end up feeling like chores we’d rather ignore.

The Tiny Tasks That Trip Us Up

Most of us have a list of quick, practical tasks staring us in the face each morning—yet we struggle to get them done. It could be putting documents away, booking a routine appointment, or replying to a short message.

You might look at your to-do list and see something that should only take five minutes, but your brain says nope, not today.

Our minds can pull an odd switcheroo with these miniature challenges. Instead of viewing them as easy opportunities for a quick win, we fixate on the potential boredom or open-endedness. Before we know it, those tasks gather dust, and the guilt piles up.

Ideas to Break the Block

Understanding the problem is one thing, doing something about it is another. Here are a few simple solutions you can try:

  • Batching: Group similar tasks together so you only have to muster energy once. For instance, tackle all phone calls in a short block of time.
  • Micro-Rewards: Promise yourself a small treat—maybe a cup of tea or a quick stroll—after finishing a couple of nagging tasks.
  • Two-Minute Rule: If something takes two minutes or less, just do it right then. You’ll clear space in your head for bigger things.
  • Buddy System: Get a friend involved. When they know you’re supposed to send that invoice or fold the laundry, it’s harder to avoid.

Experiment with one idea at a time. You might find that your resistance lowers once you’ve made these tasks feel less dull.

Keeping Fun Projects Alive

It’s important not to abandon the exciting parts of life. That buzz you get from your passion project can keep you motivated overall. You just need to remember there’s room for small jobs too.

Think of it like sprinkling salt on a meal. The grand ideas are the main dish, but the little tasks add flavour to your productivity. When they’re done, your head can remain clear and focused on what really matters.

Key Takeaways:

  • Big projects energise us, but small tasks can be easy to avoid.
  • Shifting the way you see tiny tasks can reduce your resistance.
  • Batching or promising yourself rewards can transform how you work.
  • Balancing your enthusiasm with small responsibilities keeps stress lower.

Ready to find out more about how to tackle these challenges in a practical way? Have a listen to the full episode. The podcast player is right at the top of this page, waiting for you!

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