We’ve all been there. You’re staring at a blank page or screen, willing the words to come, but they just won’t. The minutes tick by, then the hours, and you’ve accomplished nothing. Sound familiar?
If so, you’re not alone. According to a recent survey, 20 percent of people consider themselves chronic procrastinators. And while it may seem like a harmless way to put off doing things you don’t really want to do, procrastination can actually have some serious consequences.
Not only can it lead to missed deadlines and lost opportunities, but it can also affect your health. Studies have shown that chronic procrastination can lead to increased levels of stress and anxiety, and even depression.
So what can you do to break the procrastination habit? In this article, we’ll look at 10 ways to overcome procrastination and get things done.
Table of Contents:
1. Identify Your Procrastination Triggers
2. Set Small, achievable Goals
3. Create a timeline
4. Find an Accountability Partner
5. Make a Plan of Action
6. Set Consequences
7. Take a Break
8. Change Your Environment
9. Reward Yourself
10. Just Do It!
1. Identify Your Procrastination Triggers
The first step to overcoming procrastination is to identify the things that trigger it. What are the tasks or projects that you tend to put off? Is it something that you don’t enjoy doing? Or is it something that you’re afraid of?
Once you’ve identified your triggers, you can start to look for ways to counter them. For example, if you don’t enjoy the task, try to find a way to make it more interesting. If you’re afraid of it, try to break it down into smaller, more manageable steps.
2. Set Small, achievable Goals
One of the main reasons people procrastinate is because they feel overwhelmed by the task at hand. So, one of the best ways to overcome procrastination is to set small, achievable goals.
Instead of trying to write an entire research paper in one sitting, break it down into smaller tasks, like researching the topic, writing a outline, and writing the first draft. By breaking the task down into smaller goals, you’ll feel less overwhelmed and be more likely to get started.
3. Create a timeline
Another way to overcome procrastination is to create a timeline for your project. When you have a timeline, it’s easier to see how much time you have to complete the task, and it’s also easier to hold yourself accountable.
4. Find an Accountability Partner
One of the best ways to overcome procrastination is to find someone who will hold you accountable. This could be a friend, family member, or even a coworker.
When you have someone to keep you accountable, you’re more likely to stay on track and get the task done.
5. Make a Plan of Action
One of the best ways to overcome procrastination is to make a plan of action. When you have a plan, it’s easier to see what needs to be done and when.
6. Set Consequences
One way to hold yourself accountable and overcome procrastination is to set consequences for yourself. For example, you could set a rule that you won’t go to bed until the task is done. Or, you could give yourself a set amount of time to complete the task, and if you don’t, you have to pay a penalty, like buying yourself a new book.
7. Take a Break
If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or stressed, take a break. Go for a walk, take a nap, or just step away from the task for a few minutes. This will help you clear your head and come back refreshed and ready to work.
8. Change Your Environment
If you find yourself procrastinating in a certain environment, try changing it. For example, if you’re working at home and find yourself getting distracted, try working in a coffee shop or at the library.
9. Reward Yourself
One way to stay motivated and overcome procrastination is to reward yourself for completing tasks. For example, you could give yourself a small treat after completing a task. Or, you could set a goal for yourself, and if you reach it, you allow yourself to take a day off.
10. Just Do It!
One of the best ways to overcome procrastination is simply to start doing the task. It doesn’t matter how you feel about it, or how much you don’t want to do it, just start. The sooner you start, the sooner you’ll be done.
Conclusion:
Procrastination is a common problem, but it doesn’t have to be a permanent one. By following the tips above, you can overcome procrastination and get things done.
Start by identifying your procrastination triggers and setting small, achievable goals. Create a timeline and find an accountability partner to help you stay on track. And when all else fails, just start doing the task. The sooner you start, the sooner you’ll be done.