How to beat procrastination – 7 top tips to get things done -

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How to beat procrastination – 7 top tips to get things done

Posted on 4 November, 2024 by Lyndsey Segal in Business Coaching, Professional Coaching

Procrastination is a common challenge we have all faced at one point or another.

You have an important task to do but yet find yourself avoiding, delaying or ignoring it for something more easy or enjoyable.

Why do we procrastinate?

People procrastinate for a variety of reasons but here are some common reasons:

A task is vague or undefined
A task is difficult
A task is tedious
Fear of getting the task wrong or not knowing exactly what to do

The good news is that it is possible to beat procrastination.

Read on to learn seven ways to beat procrastination and boost your productivity, starting today. Don’t procrastinate!

1. Break down tasks into smaller steps

Break projects and tasks into smaller, manageable steps and pick one that you can do now.

This will help them to feel less overwhelming and more achievable.

2. Start small with the 10-minute rule

Sometimes, just getting started is half the battle.

Tell yourself that you only need to work on the task at hand for ten minutes.

Often, by the time those ten minutes are up, you will find it easier to continue working.

The 10-minute rule helps you overcome initial resistance and can lead to longer periods of focused work.

3. Make a plan

Put key dates and times on your list and add them to your task management app or calendar so you know what to concentrate on and when.

Tick them off as you go. Notice how good it feels to finish things.

4. Celebrate your progress

When you finish an item on your to-do list on time, congratulate yourself with a reward.

This will help you keep momentum and motivated.

5. Practise the Pomodoro Technique

This is a popular technique, where you choose a task or series of tasks and work on them, without distraction for 25 minutes followed by a 5- 5-minute break.

Repeat 3 more times and then reward yourself with a longer break.

6. Focus on the long game

Identifying the long-term benefits of completing a task can be hugely motivating.

Focus on how it will make you feel and the difference it will make once completed.

7. Seek support

Tell a friend, colleague or Business Coach what tasks you plan to do and when you plan to do them.

This will help you stay accountable and on track.

Remember to be kind to yourself. Celebrate your achievements and successes and how good it feels to tick items off your to-do list, knowing that tomorrow is another day.