I procrastinate.
A lot.
Even now as I’m writing this, I’m putting off doing work. And just when I decided I was going to write this post, I started putting that off too. It’s really quite annoying. If, like me, you get into a bit of a cycle of procrastination, you’ll be glad to know that it is possible to break it. Yes, that’s right, you can get tasks done before the last minute. (I know, incredible right?) So here I have for you, a collection of ideas and tips to help you to beat procrastination.
The first stage to get over a lot of things, including procrastination, is to accept that it’s there. Yes, you are procrastinating, and so now you’re going to deal with it. Simple.
Now I find it really helpful to get in the mood for getting sh*t done. Put on some really upbeat, fast tunes, bounce around a bit, and just get yourself up and moving. If coffee’s your thing, have some of that too.
Organising yourself helps a lot too. Make a to do list where each task is small and manageable. If you have something bigger to do, break it up into sections which you can write on the to do list. Aim to make each task something that will take you 15-30 minutes, this way you can tick things off on a regular basis, but at the same time feel like you’ve actually achieved something worthwhile. The ticking off is a big part of this, as well as being able to see everything you have to do in one place, checking off another item on the list really does give you a sense of satisfaction, and helps to keep you motivated.
Take breaks, but not for too long. Giving yourself 10-20 minute breaks after every hour or so of tasks keeps you feeling fresh and ready for more. Make sure you don’t do anything involving during these breaks, take a walk or have a cup of tea instead of sitting down to watch TV or browsing the internet (these things get addictive, and all too many times I’ve sat down for 10 minutes… which ends up turning into an hour).
Properly reward yourself at the end of your work. When you finish your scheduled work for the day, or tick off all of your tasks on the to do list, give yourself more than just a pat on the back. Have a nice relaxing bath, watch your favourite tv show, order that dress you wanted, read that book… treat yourself to something you’ll really enjoy. But make sure you only do this after actually getting things done- otherwise the whole point of a reward is defeated.
So now I’ve given you all of my tips for beating procrastination, leave me some of yours too.
Thank you so so much for reading this you fantastical creatures,
Much love, S x
sunshineandsparklythings 