I’m surprised that noone gave the obvious answer yet, which is:
If overcoming the problem really is hopeless, then give up and focus on more productive things, otherwise keep trying.
If it isn’t obvious whether it’s hopeless or not, then do a more detailed cost/benefit analysis.
Still, I don’t remember seeing any LW post that even mentioned that sometimes giving up is an acceptable option. Or maybe I just forgot, or didn’t notice.
This is random and for all sorts of reasons possibly a bad idea- but have you ever thought about anti-anxiety medication? It might have side effects that turn you off of it but it could help you deal with high risk situations.
(I should disclaim: I’m not a doctor, my knowledge doesn’t extend past personal experience and a cog sci minor. Obviously, not medical advice, etc.)
I personally didn’t suggest it because it seemed like it’s obvious to you, so the only interesting response would be to deny it for some good reason.
I would note that you shouldn’t give up permanently. Maybe wait a year or a few, then see if you’ve grown in other ways that would make a new attempt more fruitful.
It’s been hinted at a few times, usually in terms of “how to pick goals” rather than “when to give up on goals”. AFAIK, never a top-level post of “maybe you should give up and do something easier and/or more productive toward other goals”. I think it’d be valuable.
I’m surprised that noone gave the obvious answer yet, which is:
If overcoming the problem really is hopeless, then give up and focus on more productive things, otherwise keep trying.
If it isn’t obvious whether it’s hopeless or not, then do a more detailed cost/benefit analysis.
Still, I don’t remember seeing any LW post that even mentioned that sometimes giving up is an acceptable option. Or maybe I just forgot, or didn’t notice.
http://lesswrong.com/lw/gx/just_lose_hope_already/ ?
Yes, that link is relevant and helpful, thanks.
It’s not specifically about giving up on overcoming a particular irrational behaviour, but I guess the same advice applies.
This is random and for all sorts of reasons possibly a bad idea- but have you ever thought about anti-anxiety medication? It might have side effects that turn you off of it but it could help you deal with high risk situations.
(I should disclaim: I’m not a doctor, my knowledge doesn’t extend past personal experience and a cog sci minor. Obviously, not medical advice, etc.)
I personally didn’t suggest it because it seemed like it’s obvious to you, so the only interesting response would be to deny it for some good reason.
I would note that you shouldn’t give up permanently. Maybe wait a year or a few, then see if you’ve grown in other ways that would make a new attempt more fruitful.
upvoted. good advice. thanks.
It’s been hinted at a few times, usually in terms of “how to pick goals” rather than “when to give up on goals”. AFAIK, never a top-level post of “maybe you should give up and do something easier and/or more productive toward other goals”. I think it’d be valuable.