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jimmy comments on Willpower Hax #487: Execute by Default - Less Wrong
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This trick is commonly used for scary things that don't take much time (eg jumping off a cliff). I tend to use a 3 count for this because 10 seconds gives too long to change ones mind.
For jumping off cliffs and other nerve racking things my technique usually goes like this:
1) Start counting back from 3
2) Immediately and involuntarily have an image in my mind of a version of myself looking at me in disgust that I have to use a count-backwards-from-three technique
3) Choice expletive
4) Jump
I find that this technique works just as well for initializing actions that aren't short. Unfortunately the technique usually doesn't put me in a very eloquent state of mind. I usually avoid using this in awkward social situations... because I end up looking like I have the mindset that I'm about to jump off a cliff.
"I find that this technique works just as well for initializing actions that aren't short."
I should have been more clear. It'll get you started, but that's all it does. If it takes more than a momentary act of will power, you need new tricks.
For example, when you're jumping off a cliff, as soon as you start pushing off, you're committed. If, however, you're trying to trying to do a 1 1/2 off a diving board the 3 count won't help much since you can always bail part way through