
How to Trick Yourself Into Doing Things You Hate
by Peter Hollins
3.8/5
1 book reviewed · 3.8 avg
A psychology-focused productivity book that offers practical strategies for overcoming procrastination through scientific understanding rather than willpower, though it occasionally feels repetitive and limited in scope.
What works
• Grounded in legitimate psychological research rather than motivational platitudes
• Practical techniques that work with natural brain patterns instead of fighting them
• Accessible explanation of neuroscience concepts without overwhelming technical detail
• Strategies integrate easily into existing routines without major lifestyle changes
• Honest acknowledgment that willpower-based approaches typically fail
What doesn't
• Content becomes repetitive across chapters with similar concepts reframed
• Limited guidance for complex creative projects beyond routine task avoidance
• Some neuroscience claims feel more definitive than current research supports
• Scope feels narrow compared to comprehensive productivity systems