Ibarra 1

Jazmine Ibarra
Sarah Thaller
Fire Cohort
14 February 2021
Week 4: Get Going!
The TED Talk, “Inside the mind of a master procrastinator”, by Tim Urban, makes me
rethink being a hard worker. Most people may see me as someone who is always prepared, but
the truth is I am not. I don’t believe that anyone is ever fully prepared or ready for anything. I
don’t mean to undermine all the efforts anyone makes, I just mean that people are not always
prepared. For example, when someone is given a hug by a friend, family member, or other
person, this can be by surprise. This can even go for other events that are not so small, but large,
in terms of the emotions they can make you feel. Some emotions can last temporarily, such as
the gratification or pleasure that the gratification monkey receives whenever it is partaking in an
activity that is easy and fun. I find that making the choice to get started on whatever is seemingly
difficult, makes it that much easier to actually get it done.

I can definitely relate to what Urban talked about and I’m sure everyone in the world can,
similar to what he said. He stated that he believes everyone is a procrastinator and I happen to
agree with him. I don’t think it is possible to stay focused and productive every single day and
for every moment of life. There has to be balance between the two and I think that is something
worth mentioning, as someone who sometimes does the hard stuff before any of the easy and fun
stuff. I’m getting much better at balancing the two now. I do procrastinate, every now and then,
but even when I do procrastinate, I usually do not procrastinate for very long due to my guardian
angel, the panic monster. I want to mention that I found the drawings and explanations to be
especially hilarious, but also very meaningful. I am a hardworking person, I know that now, and
because of this, I do feel like I know how to stop procrastinating.

I have to kick the gratification monkey aside for a while in order to get my work done. I
have to put aside my wants and pleasures first so I don’t worry and I can enjoy having fun in the
present. Most times I do not procrastinate, and the things I do to avoid procrastination, is having
a list of the assignments and the deadline. I honestly dread not meeting deadlines on time. I like
having them done early so I have peace of mind. I complete assignments in order of the earliest
deadline and make my way down the list. Luckily, the list doesn’t ever get to the point that it is
too long and everything feels overwhelming because I finish things early.

I think the idea of starting tasks in order to inspire motivation is a good idea. I think
another thing that can inspire motivation is something that you can work towards or look forward
to. You can always think of that thing throughout the week or throughout the day to help you
keep going. What pushes me forward or motivates me, is my want for a good future for myself.
If I do well now, it doesn’t mean that I will do so in the future. I think that is important to note
 Ibarra 2

because you, or the things around you, whatever it may be, will not improve if you don’t do
anything about it. It’s just life! The sooner you learn that the better, I think. The first step to
completing something is to start it. Write a list of steps to meet your goals and the achievement
of that goal is more likely to be accomplished. Invest in a planner and plan your day. Wake up
early, go to bed on time, treat yourself when you notice how tired, angry, or frustrated you are
feeling. It is good to work hard, just don’t work too hard that you won’t be able to achieve your
goals and keep moving forward.