Are you constantly pushing off tasks, convincing yourself that you’ll get to them later, only to find that later never seems to come? If so, you’re not alone. Procrastination is a common problem that affects people of all ages, genders, cultures and backgrounds. But the good news is that it doesn’t have to be this way. You can learn how to stop procrastinating and finally get stuff done.
1. Identify the Reasons for Your Procrastination
Understanding why you’re procrastinating can help you create strategies to overcome it. Maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed by the task at hand or you’re just not motivated to do it. Maybe you’re afraid of failing or you just don’t have enough time. Knowing what’s causing your procrastination can help you develop a plan to tackle it.
2. Break Up Your Tasks into Smaller Ones
If the task at hand seems too daunting, break it into smaller subtasks. This will make the job seem more manageable and you’ll be more motivated to start it. A great way to keep yourself motivated is to reward yourself each time you complete a subtask.
3. Set Realistic Goals
When setting goals, make sure they’re realistic and achievable. By making your goals reachable, you’ll be more likely to stay motivated and accomplish them. You should also set deadlines for yourself to ensure that you stay on track.
4. Stay Organized
Organization is key if you want to avoid procrastination. Make lists and prioritize tasks so that you know what needs to be done first. You should also set aside certain times for specific tasks, and stick to those schedules.
5. Eliminate Distractions
Distractions are one of the biggest reasons why people procrastinate. Eliminate anything that might take away from your focus, like social media, emails, or the TV. Put your phone away, turn off the notifications, and focus on the task at hand.
6. Get Started
One of the most difficult steps is actually starting the task. It can be hard to take that first step, but once you do, the rest will come more naturally. Just take a deep breath and dive right in.
7. Don’t Beat Yourself Up
Procrastination can be hard to overcome and it’s important to be gentle with yourself if you slip up. Don’t be too hard on yourself and don’t give up! Instead, refocus and try again.
Procrastination can be a difficult habit to break, but it’s not impossible. By following these tips, you can learn how to stop procrastinating and finally get stuff done.
