Stoic Strategies For Dealing With Procrastination

Practical Stoicism

In today's episode, I delve into the pervasive issue of procrastination, a mental health symptom that seems to afflict us all in various degrees. From the stress of not being able to afford housing to the pressures of societal expectations, procrastination can manifest in many forms.

The Stoics, with their practical philosophy, offered a solution to procrastination through the concept of Memento Mori, or "remember that you must die." By confronting our mortality, we're reminded of the limited time we have and are encouraged to act accordingly. However, as I explore in the episode, simply reminding ourselves of death doesn't always translate into action.

We discuss the societal obsession with productivity and the relentless pursuit of efficiency, which often leads to burnout and anxiety. Despite our efforts to maximize productivity, we find ourselves trapped in a cycle of endless tasks and obligations, with little time for genuine relaxation or self-reflection.

But there's a way out of this cycle. By redefining our priorities and embracing a mindset focused on virtue rather than productivity, we can reclaim control of our time and lives. This involves recognizing the inherent value of rest, leisure, and personal fulfillment, rather than constantly striving for external measures of success.

Ultimately, the key lies in two practices: Memento Mori, as a gentle reminder of life's finite nature, and the creation of a plan to guide our actions and priorities. With these tools, we can navigate the complexities of modern life with clarity and purpose, free from the burden of endless productivity.

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