The Seven Frictions
where effort breaks down — none of them verdicts
I
I can’t start.
Task Initiation Friction
When starting costs more than it should
II
I start but can’t keep going.
Sustained Attention Friction
When you can start, but you can’t sustain
III
There’s too much to think about.
Planning & Overload Friction
When thinking about the work costs more than doing it
IV
Why is THIS so much harder?
Effort Asymmetry Friction
When some tasks cost far more than they should
V
Later doesn’t feel real until it’s urgent.
Time & Future-Sense Friction
When consequences don’t register until it’s too late
VI
I don’t properly recharge.
Recovery & Capacity Friction
When rest doesn’t restore, and effort keeps costing more
VII
I can do it there, but not here.
Context Friction
When your ability changes depending on where and how you work
What all seven have in common: the cost of starting.