How Do You Overcome Procrastination In Business?
Procrastination is a very common problem that most of us face at some point or the other in our lives. And I can attest to that so many times Is it just about being lazy, or it’s about putting off tasks and activities which we know are important for us to accomplish but somehow find ourselves unable to do so?
The reason behind this could be anything from lack of motivation to laziness. But whatever may be the cause, there are ways through which you can overcome procrastination. Here are some tips on how you can overcome procrastinating in your life that I am using and it is helping me.
Can you see? Is been a while since I interact here in the WA community. But these strategies are helping me and would do the same for you.
1) Set goals. A goal without a plan is just a wish. So before starting any task make sure that you have set a clear objective for yourself. This will help you stay focused throughout the process.
2) Break down big projects into smaller ones. When you break down a project into small parts, it becomes easier to handle. You won’t feel overwhelmed by the whole thing.
3) Do something every day. If you want to achieve something, then you need to start doing it right away. Don’t wait until tomorrow.
4) Make time for yourself. Take out) Break down big projects into smaller ones. When you break down a project into small parts, it becomes easier to complete them one by one. You will feel more motivated as well because you will get to see results faster.
5) Reward yourself when you finish a task. Give yourself a reward after completing a task. It will motivate you to work harder next time.
6) Be realistic with yourself. If you think you can do something in an hour, don’t expect to do it in half an hour.
7) Learn to say no. Saying “no” is not always easy, but if you learn to say “no” to things that aren’t really necessary, you will save yourself a lot of stress.
8) Get rid of distractions. Distractions like social media sites, TV etc can be very distracting. Try to avoid these things while working.
9) Plan ahead. Planning ahead will give you a sense of accomplishment once you actually complete the task.
10) Find someone who motivates you. Motivation comes from within. So if you don’t have anyone motivating you, then try to find someone who does.
11) Keep track of your progress. Once you have completed a task, keep track of what has been done and what hasn’t. This way you will be able to identify areas where you need improvement.
I would love to hear your thoughts and what can you contribute to this list.
David
Recent Comments
17
David I wish I had something to add to the list but I don't.
My problem is I spend too much time answering emails then I do on my site. I need to change that right now.
I need to finish certification training so that I can progress and give quality information and start applying to affiliates.
I have some content that is finish some that is partly finish and some that I haven't even started on. I am behind but I did have doctor's appointment all this week, but that is no excuse for not working on my website.
I need structure for me to do what I need to do. I am having a problem trying to structure myself into a routine.
If you have any suggestion or advice I will be open to any of it.
Best wishes on your journey, on your endeavors, much success in your business.
Mary
Hi Mary, what I realize is that we have to do a couple of things a little more regularly before we get into the third fourth and fifth items to work at.
For example, start working on posting let's say 3 times weekly on your website until it becomes a habit. Then pick the second item and do the same, then the third and so on. I hope that helps!
Thank you Lazyblogger for the suggestion. I will try it and see what happens.
I just want some structure in my life. I am just all over the place right now. I am going to work on it though.
Again thank you for advice and I am going to try it like I said.
Mary
Always doing something every day is a good habit, often sticking to this allows us to get more done, because we have started, so it is easy to keep going.
Every little bit helps.
Alex
Very nice list, David! I am always doing something to further my goals daily, my friend!
Jeff
Me too, David, there are so many Great things to consume! I just tend to go with the flow. That's what keeps life "exciting", but we should be careful to not overload ourselves, which is something that I tend to do a lot!
Keep succeeding!
Jeff
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A good list, David
Thank you!
There are a few things I'd add...
1. Figure out, overall, what outcome/s you want to achieve. They don't need specific timescales unless you find time constraints motivational! But they do need reasons for why you want them. Sometimes the reasons include time constraints. Write them down before setting goals. If you put them where you can find them, they can be a very useful motivational source.
2. A goal is a smaller, perhaps more time-constrained outcome which is like a stepping stone on the way to achieving an outcome. Again it's easier to remain motivated if you figure out why each goal is important and when they need to happen relative to each other (as you say, break it down).
3. Each goal can typically be broken down into tasks. For me, it's important to prioritise tasks and to carry them out in priority order. Now here's the rub. Having worked as a coach for many years (see my profile) my strength and main motivation lies in helping other people achieve what they want... but that's also a weakness without a bit of disciplined prioritisation of what I want to get done!
:-)
Richard
Richard, I started to follow your points and strategy and is there I am getting results, as simple as you break it down. I guess we tend to complicate things. Thank you for the insights.
You're welcome David... if you need help feel free to send me a pm.
:-)
Richard