Understanding and Overcoming ProcrastinationDiscover what procrastination is, why we procrastinate, and effective tips to avoid procrastination. Learn how to boost productivity and stay on track.
Procrastination is a common challenge that affects productivity and personal growth. In this article, we look into the nature of procrastination, exploring why we tend to put off tasks and how it impacts our lives. We also provide practical tips and strategies to help you avoid procrastination, enabling you to stay focused and achieve your goals efficiently.
Never do today what you can put off for tomorrow. Better yet, never put off 'til tomorrow what you can avoid altogether!
This statement illustrates a negative mindset which reinforces negative feelings. One of the most important things I did to help myself was to stop procrastinating. I accomplished this by becoming more organised.
What is Procrastination?
Procrastination is the art of putting off or delaying doing something until the last minute, or even after a deadline. We often find ourselves doing pointless or meaningless tasks that prevent us from doing important stuff. For example, we may check Facebook or browse the internet instead of doing coursework or paying the bills.
Do you procrastinate? Have you ever been given a report to complete or a homework assignment with a two-week deadline? Then, before you know it, the report must be handed in tomorrow. Where did the time go? Sure, you updated Facebook a lot, watched a few YouTube videos, watched the latest movie, and been out partying with friends. However, you still haven't even looked at the report. That's procrastination.
Why Do We Procrastinate?
We often put off tasks until the time feels right and we're in the right frame of mind to do the task. The reality is, however, that the "right time" and the "right frame of mind" don't magically materialise. We have to make the right time and make the right frame of mind.
Tips to Stop Procrastinating
This is my list of items that helped me to stop procrastinating.
- Make a list of what needs to get done.
- Prioritise items in order of when they are due or their importance. Paying your bills on time is more important than decorating.
- Break large jobs into smaller, more manageable tasks.
- Start with the hardest task of your day; the rest of your day gets easier.
- Lack of energy? Schedule the task for when you will be at your peak.
- Examine the amount of time procrastinating. I was amazed at the length of time I spent putting things off - more time than it would have taken to complete the tasks!
- Don't expect perfection.
- Just do it.
Does the thought of performing a certain task fill you with anxiety? First, try this:
- Inhale deeply while counting five heartbeats (you may check this easily by feeling your pulse).
- Exhale as you count five heartbeats.
You should notice after each breath that your heart rate is slowing, and you feel less tense.
Now, do something, no matter how small. Just make a start. Take 5 minutes and focus all your attention on this one task. After 5 minutes, try and stop. You have just accomplished something. You have started (or maybe even completed!) a task. Reward yourself.
