Write down your stopping conditions before starting
Decide in advance what result by what date would justify continuing. Pooled research suggests if–then plans can help people abandon failing efforts. The time saved is what you would otherwise keep pouring into them.
What it takes
Free. Spend 5 minutes specifying, “If this measure has not reached this level by this date, I will stop.” Following through may feel embarrassing, especially publicly.
What you may gain
The implementation-intention meta-analysis found that predetermined if–then plans also support disengagement from failing courses of action. Potential savings consist of future time that would otherwise be invested.
Context & considerations
Set conditions while calm at the start; later decisions can be distorted by prior investment. Judge future costs and returns. Disengagement is one component of the review; no separate estimate of hours saved was calculated.
Research & references
Gollwitzer, P. M., & Sheeran, P. (2006). Implementation intentions and goal achievement: A meta-analysis of effects and processes. Advances in Experimental Social Psychology, 38, 69–119. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0065-2601(06)38002-1