How to Beat Procrastination

We all have days when no matter what we try to do, we just can't keep our focus and motivation on the task. We get distracted by the simplest thoughts and end up delaying our original objective.

The first step to beating procrastination is to recognise it, are you saying yes to other less important tasks? Do you sit down to start the task, then get up to make a coffee? Be honest with yourself and you can identify it easily.

Why are we procrastinating? Is it because we find the task unpleasant or simply because we are feeling flat and un-energetic? Perhaps it is because you don't know where to begin, if this is the case, start anywhere, write a few words on a pad, draw a mindmap (we will cover this in future issues).

A few key ideas to help you control your procrastination are:

Discipline. Simply put, just force yourself to get the task done, you might not enjoy it, but it gets easier with time.

Rewards. Promise yourself something enjoyable if you make particular milestones in the task. A treat or well deserved break.

Peer Pressure. This is a great motivator, get someone else to check on your progress now and then. You seem to strive to live up to other people's expectations more than your own.

Use these techniques, and create your own. It will get easier with practice.