The 15-Minute Rule by Caroline Buchanan

Introduction

Host: Atosa Leoni (TEDx Shorts)
Speaker: Caroline Buchanan, journalist, and author of "The 15-Minute Rule: How to Stop Procrastinating and Take Control of Your Life"
Main Concept: The 15-minute rule is a strategy to overcome procrastination and tackle tasks by dedicating just 15 minutes to start.

Caroline developed the rule to handle her tax return, a task she dreaded.
Procrastination led her to prioritize unimportant tasks (e.g., pairing socks) over essential ones.
Decided to spend just 15 minutes on her tax return:
- Set an alarm for 15 minutes
- Performed small tasks related to tax preparation:
  - Turning on the computer
  - Gathering documents
  - Organizing income and expenditure columns
- Felt a significant sense of accomplishment after just 15 minutes.
Key Insight: Starting a task can reduce feelings of being overwhelmed.

Can be applied to various tasks:
- Career changes
- Financial organization
- Sorting out wardrobes
- Difficult conversations
Caroline used the rule to write and publish her book.
Steps to Implement:
- Set a timer for 15 minutes.
- Start the task without overthinking.
- Feel free to stop after 15 minutes to avoid burnout.
- Repeat the process for more sessions if needed.
- After several sessions, you can continue beyond 15 minutes if desired.

Manageability: 15 minutes is long enough to make progress but short enough to be manageable.
Creativity: Provides a safe timeframe to let your imagination flow.
Trust: Stopping after 15 minutes helps foster self-trust and reduces the pressure to keep going.
Emotional Boost: Starting even dreaded tasks can significantly boost mood and morale.

Willingness and Enthusiasm: Essential for motivation.
Three-Session Introduction:
- Day 1: 15 minutes
- Day 2: Another 15-minute session
- Day 3: Third 15-minute session, then continue as long as it's enjoyable.
Strategy for Lost Enthusiasm: Use the 15-minute rule to find or reignite willingness and enthusiasm.
Proverb for Inspiration: "God moves mountains, but he expects us to have a shovel in our hands." Use the 15-minute rule as your "shovel."

Caroline is passionate about the 15-minute rule and has experienced increased happiness as a result.
Encourages listeners to adopt the rule to overcome procrastination and achieve goals.
The talk was recorded at a TEDx event in Venza, Italy.
Special thanks to TEDxVenza organizing team.