Choosing Then over When | Tianyue Fan | TEDxShenzhen Senior HS North

Core Idea - The presentation focuses on overcoming procrastination by choosing action ("then") over waiting ("when") [1][2] - The speaker identifies "when" as a trap leading to wasting time, hesitating, and escaping from tasks [2][3][4] - The proposed solution involves replacing "when" with immediate action, focusing on the next step [4] Practical Strategies - Cut the talk by setting time limits for planning (3 minutes to decide, 30 seconds to begin) [8] - Shrink the start by making the first step too small to refuse [8] - Implement a bias for "now" by taking a concrete action within 60 seconds each time you hear yourself say "when" [9][10] Illustrative Example - A community's tree-planting project was delayed due to arguments and hesitation, but progressed once the leader took immediate action [5][6][7] - The delay resulted in an increased daily target from 8 to 10 trees per person [6] Overcoming Obstacles - Starting now doesn't mean finishing now; it means trading perfect timing for a first hold [19] - Starting rough isn't bad because you can adjust the plan, tune the route, and improve the draft [20][21] Long-Term Impact - Action plants a seed, but consistency grows a tree [21] - Acting, even in a tiny way, shifts your perception from being time's employee to time's partner [21] - This shift allows you to shape the present moment and achieve "real perfectness" [22] 7-Day Challenge - Each time you hear yourself say "when," add a verb or action you can do immediately, specifically within the next 60 seconds [23]