A cognitive bias that leads to future overcommitment
Core Idea: The tendency to overcommit to future events because blank calendar space several weeks ahead creates the illusion of future availability, despite knowing current weeks are consistently full.
Key Elements
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Psychological Mechanism:
- Present self makes decisions for future self
- Optimism bias about future time availability
- Failure to account for routine obligations that will inevitably fill empty calendar space
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Recognizing the Pattern:
- Calendar appears empty weeks ahead
- Saying "yes" feels easy when commitment is distant
- As date approaches, regret sets in as calendar fills with normal activities
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Prevention Strategy:
- Apply the "tomorrow test" - would you do it if it were scheduled for tomorrow?
- If not excited about it tomorrow, don't commit to it weeks from now
- Assume future weeks will be as busy as current ones
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Real-World Impact:
- Creates cyclical overcommitment
- Leads to chronic stress as commitments continuously pile up
- Reduces ability to follow through with quality
Connections
- Related Concepts: The Power of No (implementation tool), Optimism Bias (psychological root)
- Broader Context: Time Management (common pitfall), Future Self Continuity (psychological principle)
- Applications: Calendar Management, Work-Life Balance
References
- Abdaal, Ali. "Feel Good Productivity"
#time-management #cognitive-bias #decision-making #productivity
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