Performance and Procrastination

If you're reading this because the title caught your attention, this might be relevant to you. Perhaps you're like me—whether a creative, a professional, or simply a neurodivergent individual striving to maximize your day. In today's world, we are intensely focused on numbers, algorithms, and ways to monetize our time, all while trying to safeguard it. We are constantly balancing execution and crafting our own version of mental health. We aim to be productive without losing ourselves entirely in the process.

I have been surrounded by individuals who consistently study, practice their instruments daily, frequently create music, read, study, and practice; it becomes a routine and habit. What we often struggle with and discuss, yet rarely find the best solutions for, is how to overcome burnout. Suppose you have anxiety, ADHD, or life is just overwhelming you. How do you boost your confidence to perform and execute? Being overly critical of yourself can sometimes appear as a humble gesture of love to others; like wearing imposter syndrome as a badge of honor. Or, could it be that our fear or lack of execution is simply self-sabotage?

I've lost count of the times I've delayed practicing, acquiring a new skill, or achieving a goal because I was exhausted. Conversely, I've frequently postponed tasks that I felt wouldn't be too difficult for me to accomplish or learn, simply because I believed I could do them. Even though I would eventually complete them, I often found myself wondering in solitude, "Was that truly my best effort?"

Many people find it challenging to speak or perform in front of a camera or audience. The anxiety experienced can be severely mentally debilitating. You may end up overanalyzing every detail, including your tone, delivery, and words, often losing sight of the most crucial element—the message you aim to communicate.

Last night, about 25 creative and business professionals gathered for the "Make it Happen" challenge. (Thanks to CK Kelly, her IG is @makeithappenmonth, and my dear friend @fridayjonesmusic/@fridaysdope for always keeping me informed.) This event was essential. I had been overwhelmed by life, either acting without clear direction or experiencing weeks of complete unproductivity due to exhaustion. While I won't claim to have all the answers, I do have 10 tips that might help overcome these obstacles. I'll list them below...

#1. Be around individuals who are engaged in activities you aspire to do

#2. Embrace being comfortable with not having all the answers

#3. If you can find time for trivial activities, ensure you also allocate time for personal growth and development.

#4. Inquire and Stay Open to Learning

#5. It's alright to feel afraid; go ahead and do it regardless

#6. Explore and apply the "Pomodoro Technique"

#7. If you're a creative, share your work! (It doesn't need to be flawless)

#8. Acquire a mentor

#9. Be open and honest with YOURSELF

#10. Keep in mind that striving for perfection is unproductive, while taking action leads to success.

You might look at these suggestions and think, "Tinkah, I've tried these, and they're not working!" To that, I would say, "My dear, try them once more or adjust your approach." What struck me last night was that even though our team's challenge was to earn the most money, the key takeaway was figuring out what we can achieve with limited resources, limited time, in a room full of people we barely know, while dealing with exhaustion, real-life issues, and procrastination lurking in the background or waiting for us outside the building. We perform...we execute!

Don't let life beat you.. YOU BEAT LIFE! Special thank you to "Make it Happen Month" hosted by CK Kelly. This has inspired me to refocus my energy and do the things I know I am capable of doing.

Until next time...XOXO

-TINKAH

Photography by: @emchemist