Lecture on Procrastination by Tim Urban

Introduction

• Tim Urban shares his experience as a college student and government major
• Frequent struggles with procrastination
• Example: writing papers with last-minute efforts

Case Study: 90-Page Senior Thesis

• Initially planned to spread out work evenly
• Reality: Last-minute rush, two all-nighters, wrote 90 pages in 72 hours
• Outcome: Result was a very bad thesis (not the best one ever)

Exploring Procrastination

• Current profession: Writer-blogger, "Wait But Why"
• Decided to write about procrastination
• Interested in understanding the brain of procrastinators vs. non-procrastinators

Brain Comparison

• Rational Decision-Maker (RDM) vs. Instant Gratification Monkey (IGM)
• Rational Decision-Maker: focuses on productivity
• Instant Gratification Monkey: focuses on easy and fun activities
• Conflict between RDM and IGM leads to procrastination

The Dark Playground

• A metaphorical place where procrastination occurs
• Activities aren't enjoyable due to guilt, dread, and anxiety

The Panic Monster

• Panic Monster wakes up as deadlines approach
• Sense of urgency helps procrastinators get things done
• Personal anecdote about preparing for TED Talk

Two Types of Procrastination

• Deadline-based procrastination: Panic Monster helps meet short-term deadlines
• No-deadline procrastination: More damaging, leads to long-term unhappiness and regret

Reflection and Call to Action

• The myth of the non-procrastinator
• Life Calendar: Visual representation of a 90-year life in weeks
• Encouragement to address procrastination and be mindful of the Instant Gratification Monkey

Conclusion

• Procrastination affects everyone to some degree
• Importance of being proactive and starting tasks without delay
• Humorous note: start addressing procrastination soon