Procrastination is a very common issue among many individuals. This is so common that many individuals have actually turned it into an art. Procrastination is simply a means of putting off what you could do now, and doing it at a much later time. While this does not seem like an entirely bad thing at surface, it can lead to a number of complications that are uncomfortable for an individual. For example, the stress of having a lot to do, the pressure of deadlines, and even physical and emotional complications. Throughout this article, you will learn some simple steps on how to avoid procrastination.
1.One of the first methods that you can use in order to avoid procrastination is to learn to love lists! Many people find that lists are an essential component to do their day. You should write down all of the things that must be completed, and then the other things that you would like to get done. As you complete each task, simply mark it off on your list. You should ensure that you make lists that are reasonable and put items on it that you can achieve.
2.Next, you should determine what time of the day you are most productive. You may be a morning person, or you may be more of an afternoon person. If you try to complete tasks that need to be done at a time of the day in which you are not very productive, it is likely that you will fail at your endeavors. Do not worry about when something should be done, simply worry about doing it when you are at your best. This will ensure that you are successful in all that you do.
3.Now, when it comes to avoiding procrastination, you should consider having an accountability partner. I know it sounds a little weird at a glance, but it really is an effective measure of getting things done. Simply ask a friend or relative to keep track of the things that you have to do, and request that they encourage you throughout each day to complete those things. At the end of the day, report to this individual and get feedback on your performance. This will prove to be a very valuable resource.
4.It is said that it takes three weeks, or twenty one days, to create and break habits. Procrastination is often considered to be a habit. If you keep this in mind and work for this time frame to avoid it, you can bet by the time the twenty second day hits, you will have succeeded in breaking the habit of putting things off. This may help to motivate you when attempting to break this cycle. Just remember to keep this in mind, and be positive. Change can be a good thing, and should never be something that it is dreaded.
5.Last, but not least, learn to accept the tasks that you know you are able to do, and reject those that you know will compromise your time. Many professionals in time management will instruct you to learn how to say "no", and this is a very important element in your success. Over committing yourself can cause many problems and can actually increase the level of procrastination that you experience. If you learn to say "no", and commit only to those things that you know are possible, you will see that you are successful in overcoming procrastination.
As you can see, it can be quite easy to avoid procrastination. All it takes is a little time management and some self control, and you will find that you have more time than ever before!
How To Avoid Procrastination
Mr. B of Slough wrote in "can you please give me some help with getting things done? My wife says I am the world's biggest procrastinator. We used to joke about it but now my ways are causing friction in the house and I have to accept that things need to change. I don't know how to go about it. All I ever seem to do is talk."
The first point to make is that you know a number of the difficulties already. -----------You only get as far as talking about it whilst you are aware that action is required.
You appear to be acknowledging your responsibility for not doing things and recognise that this is making things at home difficult. On a positive note, you have already made a change. You have got round to asking for some help to make the changes.
There are a number of tips I can suggest. I would also suggest that you ask yourself some questions.
Questions first.
Reflect on past situations and ask yourself what the cost of your procrastination has been in particular situations .This may be in terms of finance, time, friendships, etc.
Now ask what would be different/ advantageous for you now if you had behaved differently?
What are the learning opportunities that this situation presents you with?
Then, ask
Why have I been putting off doing x?
What would be the benefits of doing x?
What do I need, or what will help me in getting the task done?
Where would the easiest place be for me to start?
What is the one thing that I can do right now that would make the biggest difference?
Tips
Do pen and paper exercises using above format.
Write out a list of achievable goals with timescales.
Think about what some of the difficulties arising may be.
List the strategies you can employ to deal with these eventualities.
Be clear about when you will review the situation.
Be prepared to make modifications if necessary
Remember that some tasks can be dealt with more easily when broken down into smaller more manageable components.
Tell your wife or someone else what you are doing and ask for and accept encouragement.
If you are concerned about slipping up, try to get someone to act in the role of buddy and help prompt you.
Give yourself some reward at different agreed stages.
Both Kevin Sinclair & Mary Lennox are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Kevin Sinclair has sinced written about articles on various topics from self improvement and motivation, Personal Development Plan and Ezines And Newsletters. Kevin Sinclair is the publisher and editor of , a site that provides information and articles for self improvement and personal growth and de. Kevin Sinclair's top article generates over 450000 views. to your Favourites.
Mary Lennox has sinced written about articles on various topics from Phoenix University, Science and Family. This article was submitted by Mary Lennox an experienced counsellor and intuitive life coach. The combination of her education,career background and life experiences enable her to have an empathic understanding across abroad spectrum of circumstances. Vis. Mary Lennox's top article generates over 1300 views. to your Favourites.
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