Top Tricks for Killing Procrastination
Procrastination is something that can ruin your day, damage your career, and negatively impact your relationships. Often, we laugh about procrastination as though it were an amusing habit, and sometimes it can be. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t also incredibly destructive. Imagine it’s 4 pm and you have work you desperately need to finish by 5 pm but you can’t stop browsing Facebook or making trips to the kitchen for cups of coffee.
What happens? One option is that you end up going home very late and lose out on time with your family. Another option is that you end up not finishing the work and starting the next day incredibly behind. Either way, this is a serious problem.
So, what can you do about it? Here are a few tricks that can help.
Start with the Most Enjoyable Task
One effective way to reduce your proneness to procrastination is to take on the easiest or most enjoyable task first. Our natural inclination is often to handle the most difficult task first and to get it out of the way. However, if you’re struggling with motivation, this can be an uphill battle to get yourself to commit. Instead, if the first task is something easier and more fun, you’ll find you can work more easily without being distracted. Once you’ve done that, you should be in a slightly more work-oriented frame of mind.
Make the Task More Interesting
Procrastination often stems from one simple fact: the job you should be doing is boring. Hence, you would rather be doing something else. One simple solution is to make the task more enjoyable or interesting. This might mean turning mundane tasks into a game. For example, you could time yourself to see how quickly you can complete a repetitive task. Or, it might mean providing yourself with a little stimulation; for instance, you could listen to music or watch videos on silent while working.
If you’re writing, try to make the topic more interesting so that you’re less likely to get bored. Remember, if you’re bored writing it, it’s probably not going to be great to read!
Break Tasks into Smaller Steps
A large, daunting task can be overwhelming and lead to procrastination. Breaking it down into smaller, more manageable steps can make it seem less intimidating and more achievable. Create a checklist of these smaller tasks and tick them off as you complete each one. This not only makes the task more approachable but also provides a sense of accomplishment and progress, which can motivate you to keep going.
Set Specific Goals and Deadlines
Having a clear plan with specific goals and deadlines can help you stay focused and on track. Set realistic and achievable goals for each day or week, and hold yourself accountable to meet these deadlines. This structure can help you manage your time better and reduce the tendency to procrastinate.
Use the Pomodoro Technique
The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method that involves working for a set period, typically 25 minutes, followed by a short break. After completing four “pomodoros,” you take a longer break. This technique can help improve focus and productivity by breaking work into manageable chunks and providing regular intervals of rest.
Minimize Distractions
Identify and eliminate distractions that may be causing you to procrastinate. This could mean turning off notifications on your phone, using website blockers to prevent access to distracting sites, or creating a designated workspace where you can concentrate without interruptions. By creating an environment conducive to focus, you can reduce the likelihood of procrastination.
Increase Energy Levels
We are much more prone to procrastination when we’re tired. This is because willpower requires energy. When you lack energy, it becomes much easier to get distracted or interested in other things. Give yourself more energy by sleeping better, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding stressful events wherever possible. Regular exercise can also boost your energy levels and improve overall well-being, making it easier to stay focused and productive.
Reward Yourself
Incentivize yourself to complete tasks by setting up a reward system. For instance, promise yourself a small treat or break after finishing a task. This can provide motivation and make the work feel more rewarding. Over time, this positive reinforcement can help you build better work habits and reduce procrastination.
Seek Accountability
Having someone to hold you accountable can be a powerful motivator. Share your goals and deadlines with a friend, colleague, or mentor who can check in on your progress and provide encouragement. Knowing that someone else is aware of your commitments can increase your sense of responsibility and reduce the temptation to procrastinate.
Practice Self-Compassion
Lastly, it’s important to practice self-compassion. Everyone procrastinates from time to time, and it’s easy to get caught in a cycle of guilt and frustration. Instead of beating yourself up, acknowledge that procrastination is a common challenge and focus on finding solutions. Be kind to yourself and celebrate your progress, no matter how small.
Visualize Success
Visualization is a powerful tool to combat procrastination. Spend a few minutes each day visualizing yourself completing the tasks at hand. Picture the positive outcomes and the sense of accomplishment you will feel once the tasks are completed. This can help increase your motivation and drive to get started.
Establish a Routine
Creating a daily routine can help establish a sense of order and predictability, making it easier to manage your tasks and reduce procrastination. Plan your day in advance, allocate specific times for different activities, and stick to this schedule as closely as possible. Over time, this routine can help you develop disciplined work habits.
Use Technology to Your Advantage
There are numerous apps and tools designed to help combat procrastination. Time management apps like Todoist, Trello, or Asana can help you organize your tasks and set deadlines. Focus-enhancing tools like Focus@Will or Brain.fm provide background music designed to improve concentration. Using these tools can help you stay organized and focused on your tasks.
Reflect on Your Progress
Everyone has a time of day when they are most productive. Identify your peak productivity time and schedule your most important or challenging tasks during this period. By aligning your work with your natural energy levels, you can maximize your efficiency and reduce procrastination.
Find Your Peak Productivity Time
Everyone has a time of day when they are most productive. Identify your peak productivity time and schedule your most important or challenging tasks during this period. By aligning your work with your natural energy levels, you can maximize your efficiency and reduce procrastination.
Stay Positive and Motivated
Maintaining a positive attitude and staying motivated can help you combat procrastination. Surround yourself with positive influences, set inspiring goals, and celebrate your achievements. Keeping a positive outlook can help you stay focused and driven to complete your tasks.
By implementing these strategies, you can develop healthier work habits, improve productivity, and ultimately, overcome procrastination.