How to Beat Procrastination

One of the biggest productivity-killers is procrastination. Why is it that when there’s a deadline looming, most people will do anything but work on the project that has to be completed ASAP? Here’s how to replace procrastination with productivity, whether your editor is on your case to turn in an article or you have a garage flooring project you’ve been putting off..

1. Remind yourself that no matter how much you get done, there will be more to do. Sometimes, people procrastinate because they feel like they have all the time in the world. When that project is finished, what will there be to keep you busy? The truth is, there will always be things to do. Don’t let the fear of boredom keep you from finishing your “To Do” list.

2. Make a “Must Do” list that only includes the items you’re avoiding. The tasks you know you’ll accomplish don’t need to be added to your list!

3. Break the tasks down into small steps. Once you finish the first couple of steps, momentum will often keep you going. Plus, you’ll see that the project isn’t so terrifying after all.

4. Eliminate the temptation to focus on something else. Turn off the TV, silence your phone, or get off of social media if it’s providing too much of a distraction.

5. Strike a deal with yourself. For example, if you finish cleaning your kitchen, promise yourself a trip to the pool afterwards.

6. Think of how much better you’ll feel when the task is over and done with. The temporary relief you may feel when procrastinating is nothing compared to the true relief you’ll experience when the task is behind you.

7. Figure out a consequence for not doing what you should be doing. For example, if you don’t finish that business project, you can’t go out to dinner with friends later in the evening.

8. Ask for help! Some tasks will feel much less scary when you have someone next to you. Plus, if you truly do need help, you won’t make much progress on your own.

9. Tell someone about your goal. By saying it out loud and having somebody else who expects something specific from you, you’ll be less likely to disappoint.

When you procrastinate, you waste your free time. When it’s finally time to get that project completed, you scramble, panic, and often do a not-so-great job. Stop the procrastination cycle today, start being more productive, and actually enjoy your free time.