Facing Mortality: How an Ancient Technique Battles Procrastination
Embracing the Grim Reality
In the modern world laden with distractions, ticking off tasks from a to-do list can feel like a monumental challenge. But what if the secret to overcoming procrastination lies in an archaic practice? I’ve spent a month with a plaster skull as my omnipresent companion, seeking an answer to this question. While not life-changing, this experiment has given me nuggets of wisdom that promise genuine motivation.
The Philosophical Prelude
The notion of a memento mori isn’t novel. Throughout history, philosophers have urged us to live with an acute awareness of mortality. From Socrates to Steve Jobs, pondering death teaches us to prioritize our time. Simon May’s “Jump! A New Philosophy for Conquering Procrastination” and Oliver Burkeman’s insights in “Four Thousand Weeks” tout the merit of encountering mortality, offering profound advice for a productive life - according to The Irish Times.
A New Way of Thinking
By intentionally gazing upon a skull daily, I attempted more than merely reminding myself of my finite existence. This exercise encouraged small changes. As Burkeman noted, behavior can influence thought patterns; acting in new ways births new paradigms. But, as I’ve realized, action catalyzes thought better than mere contemplation.
Lessons from Unexpected Corners
Art and popular culture have often depicted the transformative power of confronting mortality. Consider Homer’s perilous dinner in The Simpsons — the character’s fleeting brush with death propelled him into aspirational actions. While life didn’t drastically change post-skull interactions, its constant reminder provided occasional clarity, much like a flickering candle in a dim room.
Procrastination Expanded
The experiment didn’t miraculously increase productivity, as May eloquently points out, the motivation lies not in rushing but in consistent, calm attentiveness. The practice fostered sporadic moments of lucidity – whispers of why anxiety over unachieved goals holds me back from relishing life.
Looking Forward
While the memento mori hasn’t radically shifted my reality, it renewed my appreciation for life’s preciousness. As I contemplate extending this social contract with my skeletal desk buddy, I toy with another symbol of impermanence - perhaps a tattoo? After all, embracing life’s finite nature might be an eternal endeavor.
A Symbolic Step
To anyone seeking self-betterment, this message resounds - the victory over procrastination starts by transforming thought into action. Whether it’s a skull, story, or ink on skin, these symbols mark another stride towards true living. For now, they represent potential and the unapologetic embrace of one’s own fleeting existence.
