The two-minute rule

Against procrastination: you commit to just two minutes. The start is the real hurdle.

Here’s how

1. Decide to do the task for just 2 minutes, no more.
2. Don’t picture a big success, just the first step (open the file, put your shoes on).
3. After 2 minutes you may stop. Usually you carry on, and if not, you’ve still begun.

A calm self-help exercise, no substitute for therapy. Leave out whatever doesn’t feel good.