Productivity Tips: 5 Tips for Beating Procrastination

Stuck? The first step in beating procrastination is to understand why you're procrastinating. Analyze the reasons for procrastination and find a solution. Here are some tips for getting unstuck:

Consider Not Doing It

Often, the reason you're having trouble working on a project or task is because you're not really interested enough in doing it at all. Sometimes the best option is to take the task off your list, which is not the same as putting it off. You don't have to follow through on every idea you ever put on your project list.

Perhaps this project isn't a good fit for you at all. Perhaps you should take a different path.

For example, many people say they're going to write a book, but after putting it off for ten years, maybe it's time to consider that you don't really want to. You may have thought you could install your own microwave, but maybe hiring someone or delegating the task would be better.

Address Self-Doubt

If you're sure you want to do it but are still putting it off, the problem might be lack of confidence that you can do it.

Remind yourself that your work matters, remind yourself of why you are doing what you're doing, give yourself a pep talk, remind yourself of past successes.

Do you fear finishing the project? It could be a fear of success, a fear of failure, or a fear of what comes next. Identify and confront the fear.

Get More Knowledge

If you're unsure how to start or don't have enough information, address that problem. Make research the first step to get comfortable with the topic. Identify the next step.

Do a search online. Buy a book. Read the directions. Often research will stimulate ideas that will help you get rolling.

Give It Some Quality Time

If your problem is with distractions and interruptions, set aside a block of time when you don't let yourself do anything else.

If you end up literally staring at your computer during this time, so be it. Often reading over your notes, typing up more ideas, and brainstorming ideas can get your juices flowing.

Just Do It

To avoid procrastination, just get started now. Don't worry about perfecting it until later. Don't wait for the "right time" or until you know everything about it.

Just identify the first step, and go.

Also see our post on 5 Tips for Focusing on Your Work.