The Top 10 Procrastination Busters
By Gwyn Hayward-Ryan
We all have “enemies” which get in the way of getting things done, especially if these tasks are tiring, boring, difficult or anxiety-provoking. Here are some strategies, thoughts and habits to get you past the mental roadblocks and back to productivity.
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Make your To Do list Do-able.
Don’t set yourself up for failure. Cross off those items that amount to unimportant busywork. Only include items on your list that you can achieve within the given timeframe.
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First things First
Setting priorities is crucial. Do the most important first – not the easiest. Break the larger tasks into small chunks. This will lower the overwhelm and increase momentum and sense of achievement as you tick these off your list.
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Difficult tasks need you at your best
If you put off the difficult tasks until the end of the day, or week, you run the risk of .having to work while “running on empty”. Use your best time [when you are most focused and energetic] to complete difficult projects.
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Become selfish: Know your needs and ask for help
Know when you can or should delegate. Make sure you have all the information and resources you need to do the task. Learn to say “No” when you need to and don’t over-promise.
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Choose Accountability
Some people work better when they are accountable to someone who really cares about their success. Finding an “accountability partner” who can cheer you on can work really well.
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Reward Yourself
Pat yourself when you achieve a milestone – especially a difficult one. Choose a reward that is meaningful to you. Learn to share your successes with others who will be excited at your achievements.
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Re-charge
Power naps, a few deep breaths, going for a short, brisk walk all can raise your energy and clear your mind. Along with this don’t forget that getting sufficient sleep, and good nutrition will help too.
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Know the Payoffs
Let’s face it, procrastination is usually just an avoidance that enables us to put off the inevitable. Whether it is a fear of overwhelm, fear of imperfection, indecision or something else that holds you back, the result of avoiding is often guilt. Learn to distinguish between distractions and goal achievement.
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Get in touch with the end result
Before you begin a task or project that has a high procrastination potential, get in touch with the outcome. When it’s finished, what will that mean to you? How will it feel?
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Just Do It!
Don’t think about it too much, just jump in and get it done!
Gwyn Hayward-Ryan is a certified coach with experience in both personal and professional coaching. Gwyn’s background in education, psychology and Human Resource consulting enable her to bring both depth and breadth to her coaching. She has a special interest in working with people who are new or emerging leaders along with people who want to make more of their potential in their careers.
Gwyn Hayward-Ryan
B.A., M.Phil., T.T.C.,
Certified Coach; IAC-CC
Personal and Professional
gwyn@movingforwardcoaching.co.nz
www.movingforwardcoaching.co.nz
