Take Action To Avoid Procrastination

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, procrastination is “to intentionally put off doing something that should be done.”

You can spot a procrastinator a mile away because the individual will:

• Put off tasks until the last minute
• avoid difficult tasks and deliberately look for distractions
• say they perform better under pressure, but more often than not that’s their way of justifying putting things off.
• look for the perfect opportunity to “start” a project.

Sounds familiar? We have all delayed and procrastinated at one point or other in our life. Some just make a profession out it. People who delayed their tasks have reported feelings of anxiety and stress from the impending task. Hence, it is advisable to “bite the bullet” and get started.

Like any habit, procrastination is one that is formed over time when an individual enables this habit with excuses. You can transform procrastination into a good habit by taking the following actions…

1. Root Cause of Procrastination

• Figure out what is stopping you from getting on with the task. Is it disinterest or lack of skills? Are you uncomfortable with the task? Once you know what is holding you back, it is easy to find a solution.

2. Break Tasks Down To Avoid Being Overwhelmed

• List down the tasks to do
• Enlist help if necessary
• Implement a deadline for each task and keep to your timelines so you can stay on track.

3. Work in a Conducive Environment

• Eliminate temptations / distractions (digital games, social media)
• Organize documents or files

4. Reward Yourself 

• Focus on how you will good you feel once the tasks are completed.
• Incentivise yourself with good rewards that you appreciate (eg. short breaks, healthy snacks or digital treats)

5. Take action.

• Make your intentions public. Tell a friend or announce it on social media. This announcement will hold you accountable and motivate you to act. Also, you will have your friends to support you.
• Harness the power of NOW. Make that a rule so that you will not have the chance to delay your action.

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Till our next post, love yourself, love one another.