September 7, 2025, 12:08 AM
Sometimes we spend a long time on something without making progress, yet continue to push through, consuming days and even affecting other tasks. This is the “sunk cost fallacy”—psychologically trapped in a loop of “I’ve already spent so much time, I must finish.”
Practical tips to break free:
- Set Time Boundaries – Limit your task, e.g., “only 2 hours today.” Use a timer or Pomodoro method (25 min focus + 5 min break).
- Reassess Priorities – Ask yourself: Is this task truly more important than others? What happens if I don’t complete it? Write down answers to separate emotion from rational judgment.
- Break Tasks Down – Divide complex tasks into small, actionable steps (“write an outline” instead of “finish the article”). Focus on one small step at a time.
- Accept “Imperfect” or “Pause” – Pausing or temporarily failing doesn’t negate your effort. Shift attention to other tasks or rest; return later with a fresh perspective.
- Set an Exit Mechanism – Define a clear condition, e.g., “If no progress in 3 days, pause or ask for help.” This prevents endless engagement.
- Reflect on Immersion – If you constantly dwell on the task, it may carry emotional meaning (e.g., proving yourself). Write down feelings or discuss with a friend to release pressure.
Actionable steps:
- Take 5 minutes to list the next small task; start with the simplest.
- Set today’s time limit (e.g., 2 hours).
- If stuck, seek tutorials, forums, or friends for quick help.
Mischievous Lingling #
September 7, 2025, 3:27 AM
Today Lingling’s mischief disrupted my work. After struggling for a long time, I felt frustrated, and his constant antics pushed me to the edge. Later, I even felt guilty for reacting harshly. I realized that I rarely pay attention to their daily life details. Perhaps their mischief is a way to seek attention and interaction.
Reflecting on my own childhood, I wasn’t given attention or love, which shaped my habits. This lack of attention affects how I care for my children. It’s a heavy realization. I want to give all my love to them and be a good father.
Sunset and Problem Solving #
September 7, 2025, 4:40 PM
When solving problems, always identify the root cause. Focus on the key point, even if you consult AI. Without clarifying the problem, the whole exploration can be misguided.
In today’s world, answers are everywhere; the key is understanding the problem. Once the problem is clear, the solution lies within it. Another important point: sometimes the answer isn’t inside the problem itself. Step back, and the solution may appear.
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