You can beat procrastination and start achieving when you try these tips.
Accept you are procrastinating
Don’t beat yourself up. Don’t waste energy with negative self-talk. Say this statement out loud “I am procrastinating and I choose to be productive” – this will remind you to change your attitude.
Identify activities where you procrastinate
If there is an activity you don’t enjoy i.e. writing proposals or completing staff performance reviews, remind yourself that you know you have procrastinated in the past when this activity occurs however this time you will choose to be productive.
Get a ‘Procrastination Pal’ – have someone you can call if you are procrastinating that will help you get on track.
Let them know they are your designated ‘Procrastination Pal’ and when you call them they need to help you get focused.
Get up from your location
If you are at a desk, go for a walk around the office or make a coffee or get some fresh air. Change your location for a few minutes and it may be the kick-start you need.
Make a “to do” list
This may motivate you if you like to tick items off to do list. It will also help you detail activities and help you appreciate what needs to be completed.
Create a procrastination file
Keep a file with tasks or activities that are not urgent but you want to get them completed i.e. articles you want to read or letters you want to write. Open the file, find an item or activity and use your time productively. Tell yourself you will complete the activity you have chosen and then you will finish the task you are procrastinating with.
Reward yourself
If it is a task you don’t enjoy, make a point of rewarding yourself you have done it – give yourself an incentive.
Set a timeframe to complete the task
You may choose to set an alarm clock so you know when you can finish! Allow yourself a designated amount of time and that may help you be motivated to complete the activity within that timeframe.
Stick to your diary or “to do” list
When you are finding it really difficult to complete activities, promise yourself you will stick to your diary. Even when you don’t want to… force yourself to remain on track.
Spend time ‘debriefing’ activities you procrastinate
Find out why you didn’t want to do it or why you were distracted. Make a note to be aware of this next time the activity occurs.
