When it comes to being productive, we all face moments of "productive procrastination" or what Erwin refers to as the "checking state". It's that feeling when we know we should be productive, we want to be productive, but somehow we can't seem to get ourselves to actually do the work. It's a frustrating state to be in, and it often happens when we have too much swirling around in our heads and not enough clarity on what needs to be done.

When it comes to being productive, we all face moments of "productive procrastination" or what Erwin refers to as the "checking state". It's that feeling when we know we should be productive, we want to be productive, but somehow we can't seem to get ourselves to actually do the work. It's a frustrating state to be in, and it often happens when we have too much swirling around in our heads and not enough clarity on what needs to be done.

One of the main reasons we find ourselves in this checking state is because we have too many tasks floating around in our minds. We have a mental to-do list that keeps growing, but we haven't taken the time to write it down or organize it in any tangible way. As a result, our minds become cluttered with all the things we need to do, and it becomes overwhelming to even begin tackling them.

To overcome this, it's essential to take the time to jot down our tasks and create a physical to-do list. By writing everything down, we can clear our minds and gain a sense of control over our responsibilities. This simple action allows us to see our tasks in a more organized and manageable way, making it easier to prioritize and take action.

Another common reason for falling into the checking state is when our tasks are too large and not concise enough. When we have vague or ambiguous tasks on our to-do list, it's challenging to know where to start or how to approach them. This lack of clarity can lead to feelings of overwhelm and paralysis, causing us to procrastinate instead of taking action.

To combat this, it's crucial to break down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable subtasks. By breaking tasks down into bite-sized pieces, we can make them less daunting and more achievable. This approach allows us to focus on one task at a time, making it easier to make progress and build momentum.

In addition to breaking tasks down, it's also helpful to replace vague or ambiguous tasks with more specific and actionable ones. Instead of having a task like "work on project," try breaking it down into smaller, actionable steps such as "research project topic," "create outline," or "write introduction." By replacing vague tasks with specific ones, we provide ourselves with clear direction and eliminate any ambiguity that can lead to procrastination.

To summarize, the checking state or "productive procrastination" is a common struggle when it comes to being productive. It often occurs when we have too much on our minds and not enough clarity on what needs to be done. To overcome this, it's essential to write down our tasks and create a physical to-do list. Breaking tasks down into smaller, more manageable subtasks and replacing vague tasks with specific ones also helps us gain clarity and take action.

In conclusion, if you find yourself stuck in the checking state, take a moment to write down your tasks and create a physical to-do list. Break your tasks down into smaller, actionable steps, and be sure to replace any vague or ambiguous tasks with more specific ones. By implementing these three actionable pieces of advice, you can overcome the checking state and increase your productivity. So, rejoice in the fact that you have the power to recommit, revise, remove, and replace any obstacles that stand in your way of being productive.