Stop Procrastination

Procrastination is a bad habit.

To break it is a goal in itself.

Find out why you procrastinate and try different strategies to stop it.

1. Is the task too yucky?
   Put it at the top of your "To Do List."
   Get them over with quickly and enjoy your reward as soon as possible.
   Remember some things just get yuckier with time.
   
   
2. Is the job too huge?
   Break it down into teeny tiny baby steps and start on one little job.
   It doesn't matter how small it is.
   Remember you can't finish something without first getting some kind of a start on it.
   
   
3. Is there too many decisions to make?
   Focus on the big picture and the three most important decisions that have to be made.
   Create a positive and negative outcomes list for each point.
   Then during your best decision making time pick the most effective solution.
   
   
4. Are you afraid to fail?
   Make a list of the 50 benefits you will get from achieving your goal.
   Visualize how great it will feel at the end of your goal.
   By developing an intense desire all your energy will be focused on success not failure.
   
   
5. Are you feeling too lazy?
   Reschedule your task for a time when you are at your peak.
   Make sure your getting enough nutrition and rest.
   (Remember DO NOT use up your rewards if you haven't earned them this will only make you feel less interested in reaching your goal.)
   
   
6. Are you a worried about doing it perfectly?
   No one is perfect.
   You can have high standards but keep in mind your time frame.
   You can always go back and fine tune things later as long as the majority of the task is done.
   
   
7. Was the job given to you by someone you don't like?
   Negative feelings towards others can interfere with the goal.
   Remember it's not a popularity contest.
   Make sure you clearly know what they expect then try to put some fun into it.
   Make up a game with yourself by collecting points earning extra for your "pain and suffering."
   
   
8. Are you easily distracted?
   If you often lose your concentration make sure you:
   
   • turn off your messenger or incoming email alerts
     
   • have a "to do list" to keep you on track
     
   • schedule blocks of time for jobs with "breaks" in between
     
   • make a rule that you can't leave, phone, read emails, or watch TV until your done the task
     
   • DO SOMETHING...make sure it is a very small and easy task...then do another one
     
   • lock yourself in a room
     
   • unplug the phone (you could always check your messages later)
     
   • clean up any junk in your work area (before you get started on the task)
     
   • tell friends and family that you do not want any disruptions unless its an emergency (make sure you clarify what emergencies are to both young and old).

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Page Last Updated: April 12, 2006 1:13 PM

Skills for the 21st Century