If you earned a dollar every time you procrastinated, you would be very wealthy now, if you aren’t already. Everyone has procrastinated at some point. It’s easier to avoid getting things done than to do what’s necessary. But the convenience of pushing things off costs you much more than you realize.
Here’s how to quit procrastinating and be more resourceful.
1. Break the Task Into Little Parts
One reason we procrastinate is that the entire task in front of us seems so overwhelming, and we begin to ask ourselves, 'How do I do this? Where do I even start?' Then, subconsciously, we avoid getting started at all. The trick is to break that huge task into little parts. When you do that, instead of seeing the entire work as a big, impossible chunk, you begin to see little chunks that are easier to accomplish.
In no time, you’ll be motivated to actually get to work because what you’re seeing now is so small compared to the big chunk of work you were seeing before. You don’t need to worry about getting everything done at once. Your goal should be to complete each task before moving on to the next.
Break it into a sequence. A comes before B, then C, then D. At that point, your focus should be on A. Once you get A done, you move on to B. That way, everything looks simple, and you begin to wonder why you delayed for so long.
2. Time Yourself
Procrastination thrives in the absence of time. When you feel like you have all the time in the world, it becomes even harder to get anything done because you feel relaxed enough to do nothing.
Timing yourself gives you a sense of direction. You know that by a certain time, you’re supposed to have gotten something done. You also have to take your timing seriously because if you don’t, it’ll affect the overall outcome of your work.
After breaking your task into parts, set realistic timeframes. Take a look at the project at hand and the magnitude of work involved. Ask yourself how long it’ll realistically take to get it done. You don’t want to pressure yourself with unrealistic timeframes because that’ll only lead to disappointment.
We often say, “I’ll do it eventually” or “Someday I’ll get it done.” That day won’t come unless you’re practical about timing.
3. Get Rid of Distractions Beforehand
Sometimes we really want to get things done, but we can’t because we’re distracted. Social media is a good example.
We live in a world where it’s hard to get anything done without checking what’s happening online. You want to check Instagram, Snapchat, or Facebook, or reply to a text. Doing so takes time away from what you’re supposed to be doing, and your work suffers.
You need to put your phone aside because keeping it nearby will distract you. Notifications will keep coming, and you’ll be tempted to pick it up. Keep your phone away until you’re done with your task.
Family and friends can also be distractions. When you want to focus, they’re often the ones who want to talk or ask for help. You need to remove yourself from that environment for the time being. Going to a library or a coffee shop can help you concentrate and get things done without interruption.
4. Hang Out With People Who Inspire Action
Show me your friends, and I’ll tell you who you are. If you hang out with people who do nothing but sleep all day, you’ll struggle to get anything done. But when you’re around people who are constantly doing something productive, it pushes you to do the same.
People who are go-getters, unstoppable, and always on the move will influence you positively. Their energy rubs off on you. Even when you don’t feel like doing anything, they’ll push you and bring out the best in you.
If you feel stuck in procrastination, look for people who are the opposite of you, people who are constantly getting things done without holding back.
5. Use Incentives and Rewards
Rewards are great energy boosters. You don’t have to wait for someone else to promise you one. You can promise yourself one.
It’s your goal and your task. If you don’t do it, no one else will. Plan a reward for yourself. Tell yourself that if you complete a task, you’ll treat yourself to something nice or go to your favorite restaurant.
Before you know it, you’ll be up and doing because you’re looking forward to the reward. Think of procrastination as your mind playing games on you. You have the power, energy, and zeal to do whatever you want. Think of the big picture and what you stand to achieve, and let that be your motivation.