Strategies for Overcoming Procrastination
In this day and age, we are so inundated with choice and opportunity that you might even say we have choice overload. There is just so much that we could do, but we often end up not doing anything at all.
Procrastination is one of the biggest dream killers.
In a world where there is so much competition for your attention, staying focused and acting on the things that would truly give you an incredible quality of life, is becoming increasingly challenging.
Time is, was, and always will be your most valuable asset and the way you use it will determine what you create or fail to create with and for your life. If you really want to overcome short-term hurdles and live a life of fulfilment, you must have an effective strategy for overcoming procrastination.
What are the most effective ways to overcome procrastination?
Procrastination happens to everyone. The good news is that you can understand how to deal with it in order to be more productive.
Overcoming procrastination is not simple, but it is something we must aim for and work towards.
Here are seven techniques to help you overcome procrastination and begin being more productive straightaway.
1. Make a list
Begin by making a to-do list of tasks that you want to complete. Put a date next to each item if there is a deadline that you have to meet.
Estimate how long each task will take to complete and then double that figure so you don't underestimate and then feel disappointed because you didn't finish it on time.
2. Start small
When you procrastinate on a task, it can feel like a huge weight on your shoulders. But, fortunately, you don't have to start out big.
Break down your procrastinated project into manageable parts. What simple steps can you do to help get things started? Try concentrating solely on that single action. You may discover that by starting small, you will be able to make headway on the rest of the work.
3. Minimize distractions
Distractions are one of the most common reasons we don't take action.
Time-blocking is an excellent approach for dealing with distractions and ensuring that you complete your work. Simply set aside time during your day to do specific tasks. During the blocked-out time, do nothing but focus on the task at hand until it is completed. Set a timer, turn off your ringer, and give your attention to what you have blocked off the time to do.
4. Reward yourself
It is crucial to reward yourself for your efforts whenever you have accomplished a task (or even a little portion of a larger project).
Allow yourself to enjoy something fun and entertaining, whether it's attending a sporting event, playing a video game, or watching your favorite TV show.
5. Improve your lifestyle to have more energy
When you lack energy, you will procrastinate and eventually burn out. This can also lead to an unhealthy lifestyle. Small changes can have a major impact on your productivity and life.
Here are a few suggestions:
- Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep per night.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in green vegetables, good fats, and low sugar levels.
- Avoid eating unhealthy snacks.
- Exercise several times per week.
- Drink plenty of water
You'll be surprised at how well your body feels after a few weeks of being healthier. You will have more energy to fulfill your goals and meet your deadlines; it will change your life.
6. Optimize your environment
It can be tough to be productive in a cluttered or messy workspace. Your workspace must be clean, tidy, comfortable, and clear of distractions.
Work-related technology can also be a source of distraction, so consider temporarily turning off your email or turning off your phone while working on a challenging task.
7. Accept imperfections
Perfectionism, for some, is a source of procrastination and makes tasks appear more difficult than they are. You'll be more productive if you do your best rather than perfection. My favorite quote that I used to say to my perfectionist students all the time is “Done is better than perfect!”
For example, rather than feeling the need to create a perfect piece of work, striving to write a rough draft of a report that you can revise later, can make it much simpler to avoid procrastination.
Remember
You should now have a firm understanding of procrastination and what you can do to combat it.
Don't be worried if you didn't complete as much as you planned one day. To really eliminate procrastination, you must also take rest days to avoid burnout.
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