How to Combat Procrastination

Let’s be real, distractions happen…. Some distractions we can control and some we cannot control. Even when we are not being interrupted by others, we cause our own distractions. This is called procrastination. Procrastination is the act of delaying tasks that need to be accomplished. Before we go any further, let’s take this procrastination quiz that I found on Psychology Today.

Procrastination Quiz

If after you take the quiz you find out that you are indeed a procrastinator, let’s make a pact to STOP right now! Here are six tips to help combat procrastination:

1. Break down large tasks into smaller tasks
   1. If you have a task that is large and overwhelming, research how you can break that task down into smaller more manageable tasks. For example, if you have to write a 10-page paper, break it down by writing 2 ½ pages at a time. If you need help with this, I have a blog post as well as a YouTube video that can assist you with this.
2. Complete the easy tasks first
   1. Using this philosophy can help in many different areas. If you complete the easy tasks first, then the harder tasks will not seem as stressful. Even when taking a test, complete the easy questions first and then spend the rest of the time with the harder questions.
3. START!
   1. Just begin, nothing beats procrastination like actually starting the task you need to complete. Once you begin the task, you will feel a sense of accomplishment and maybe complete it sooner than expected.
4. Get help
   1. When a task is overwhelming don’t be afraid to get help. Ask someone with experience to sit down with you and help you find less stressful ways to complete the tasks. Sometimes it just takes another set of eyes to help you get to where you need to be.
5. Don’t focus on perfection
   1. Perfection is procrastination’s cousin LOL! Sometimes we make mistakes. Once we realize this then we can move forward knowing that we put forth our best efforts.
6. Count the cost
   1. Think about what not completing a task will cost you in the long run. Keep your end goals in mind and this will motivate you to complete the tasks.