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Crush Your Procrastination Habits
Posted by Mary Johnson | Posted in Motivation | Posted on 07-06-2009
Who among us has never procrastinated? The first time you procrastinated was probably in school when you did a project or paper at the last minute or tried to cram for an exam. It’s not easy to overcome procrastination, but it is a habit you can unlearn, just like you learned it.
The first step to solving any problem is to admit you have one. The second step is acknowledging you want to solve that problem and will do what it takes to overcome the issue. So repeat after me, “I am a chronic procrastinator. I will do whatever I must to rid myself of this nasty habit.” Well done! This is the first step toward a new “do it now” you!
Generally, there are three reasons we procrastinate. One, we just don’t like to do unpleasant things. Two, we’d rather do what we’d rather do. Finally, we put off and jobs or tasks that seem overwhelming.
Even when you can bring yourself around to doing that which is unpleasant you will find a million other excuses why the task can wait. Whatever your reason for procrastinating you must find a way to overcome the excuses.
If the problem facing you is a job you don’t want to do, then think of some way to leverage your best interest in favor of getting the task done. Offer yourself a reward once the job is done. Do something for yourself.
If there is something else you prefer doing make that your reward. If you would rather have a manicure than go to the dentist, schedule a manicure right after your dental appointment. Immediate gratification is a great way to overcome procrastination.
When a task overwhelms you break it up into small units. This is an extremely effective way to stop procrastinating. Smaller units of a big job can make it seen more achievable.
Procrastination seems like a never-ending battle, but you can overcome it. Here are a few more tips you can use.
You can set a schedule and stick to it, practicing time management and organizational skills as you follow it. Nothing works as well as a well planned day. When a task takes too long stop, add it to tomorrow’s list, and move on. There is no miracle cure for procrastination, but you’ll find yourself doing procrastinating less following these tips.
