EI for Young Adults: Discussion 26

What makes us productive?

We are all productive at different times with different motivations. Here are some examples:

1. Reasonably productive. Being productive within the time constraints and the commitment. I am not going to spend more time on it than I allocate, I'll do the best I can and be at peace with it.

2. Deadline motivated. Being productive when there is a time crush. If there is plenty of time ahead I am not productive, I only become productive when the time is limited.

3. Precrastinating. If I have something to do I am not going to be happy until I am done with it. See precrastination video here to see the pros and cons of procrastination and pre-crastination

4. Feel like it. I am productive as long as I feel like it. But when I am tired I no longer push myself and move on to something else.

Role playing inner conflict

I don’t want to be alone in the evening, I have a small but very exciting chance to spend time with B, or safe bet to spend time with D. I don't want to risk being alone and wait for B to reach out to me, I also don't want to miss my chances and hang out with D instead of the opportunity to hang out with B.

This difficult decision can be played out by three people playing three conflicting parts:

Part A. Needing companionship, not wanting to be alone

Part B: Needing thrill and excitement, wanting to hangout with B

Part D: Needing stability and safety, wanting to spend time with D

The conversation may go like this:

Part A: You better make sure you are not alone, stay with D, it's a safer option

Part B: BUT I need to have thrill and excitement, I am really going to regret it if I miss my chance of hanging out with B

Part D: You don't want to betray your friends, D is going to be there for you, don't neglect D!

By role playing our conflicting parts we can reflect on the feelings and needs of each part and something will start opening up in terms of what action to take.