I don’t know about you, but if there is something that I dread doing, I can procrastinate till the cows come home! Procrastination isn’t just a symptom; it’s a condition. It tends to develop over time and can also lead to other issues.
If you tend to procrastinate, you may want to stop and ask yourself what exactly you are “putting off” and if it is even worth it. If you accept that procrastination is more than just an annoyance, you can begin to deal with the habit and develop more effective ways to manage your time.
The biggest key to conquering procrastination is realizing what you are doing when you procrastinate. Ask yourself, “Why am I procrastinating?” Perhaps it’s to make you feel like you are accomplishing something. Or maybe it’s a coping mechanism to divert attention from something unpleasant or painful.
So how can you reduce procrastination and regain control of your time? Try these tips:
Identify the habit.
You might find that your procrastination stems from re-prioritizing your workload. A person who delays an essential task for good reasons is not procrastinating. However, if you never get back to completing these necessary tasks or focus on other functions to avoid the important ones, then you are procrastinating.
You can tell that you’re procrastinating if you continuously fill your day with tasks that aren’t urgent, or you spend time reading the same emails several times a day without deciding how to act on them.
You’re also procrastinating if you begin an urgent task but then wander off to grab a cup of coffee. Taking a break is ok, but if you never come back and finish it, then you are procrastinating.
Just start working.
A sure way to procrastinate is to spend too much time deciding whether or not to take action. Instead of debating, take action and get the work finished. You’ll only regret not doing it if you let it slide.
The reason this tip is so practical is in how it helps you take the first step. The first step is usually the hardest and once you’ve taken it, the rest becomes more straightforward. If you had to push a car, for example, you’d find that the most challenging step is getting the vehicle to move, but it gets much easier after that. Apply the same principle to your work.
Even if it’s small, take the first step toward what you want to get done. It doesn’t have to be the most significant step you’ve ever taken –get the ball rolling, and you’ll gain momentum.
Avoid assuming that willpower is the answer.
The temptation to procrastinate can come from within you, but it’s also the result of your environment. In an environment where you don’t feel supported, you won’t fully realize your intentions. Ask yourself, “What do I need to achieve my goals?” Then make a list of the steps you need to take to achieve those goals.
Once you’ve figured them out, take one step at a time. One step leads to another, and another, and soon you’re moving in the direction of your goals. Many people assume that willpower is enough. but willpower is like fuel to a car; you can only use it for so long before you feel completely wiped out.
In addition, once your willpower runs out, finding the motivation to start back up is challenging. That’s why it’s essential to think about your goals and plan the steps you need to take to achieve them. Then take those steps without focusing on the unpleasant aspects of the task.
Procrastination can also be due to a lack of motivation. If you become preoccupied with your goals, you’re less susceptible to procrastination. That’s why it’s always a good idea to set goals that motivate you.
Try these tips and make a clear plan to set goals, eliminate the need for willpower, reduce procrastination, and get the job done!
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