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​We’re all guilty of procrastinating, whether it’s on a task, on planning our event, on cleaning our bathroom, or on any basic task. In fact, according to speaker and researcher Piers Steel, 95 percent of people procrastinate to some degree. Share on X

While it may be comforting to know that you are not the only one who procrastinates, it can be sobering to realize just how much it can affect your life and hold you back.

We can become disillusioned and demotivated with our work if we procrastinate over a long period of time, which can lead to depression and even job loss, in extreme cases.

The bad news is we can only run, we can’t hide – despite all that procrastinating, the task still needs to be done.

Procrastination is a habit; this means that you probably can't stop it overnight. Habits only stop being part of you when you avoid practising them. Share on X

So how do we motivate ourselves to get moving early in the process, and complete a project in a reasonable amount of time? 

Follow these 6 simple, yet effective tips, and you are certain to end up being a more productive person.

#1 Know Why You Are Procrastinating

Procrastination is a complex issue that involves several factors. The first step to successfully overcoming procrastination is to recognize and admit that you’re doing it. Then, identify the reasons behind your behaviour and use the right strategies overcome it. 

For instance, maybe you avoiding a particular project or task because you find it unpleasant or boring. If that is the case, take steps to get it out of the way quickly, so that you can focus on the jobs you find more pleasant and enjoyable.

So, you have to identify the reason why you are procrastinating, then you can use any of the tips below to tackle it.

#2 Write a To-Do List 

Poor organization can lead to procrastination.

A very helpful “how to stop procrastination” tip is to make a list of the task you need to get done, and note how long each task should take to complete. Include tasks you do on a regular basis as well as bigger projects you have.

List the tasks in deadline order. Give a due date to the tasks that don't actually have one. This strategy will keep you organized and on track. Share on X

#3 Break Big Tasks into Smaller Parts

Break your tasks into manageable chunks. You can do this to make large projects seem less overwhelming.

After breaking down the task, give the smaller pieces deadlines that you can easily reach before the finished project is due. By splitting it up into bite-size chunks, you will see the smaller tasks as achievable and manageable.

This tip will help in stopping that panicky, overwhelming feeling.

Customise it – Make it your own

#4 Get Rid of Distractions

Taking away distractions will really improve your flow of concentration.

If technology is distracting you, switch off what you don’t need. You can turn off your phone and stop email alerts and definitely don’t have the TV on when you’re trying to work.

Even if the distractions are related to your work, they could still be affecting your concentration and the quality of the task you’re currently working on. Because let’s face it, it is very difficult to tackle many things at once and actually do them right.

#5 Use Your Energy Wisely

You must have noticed that you have more energy at certain times of the day (like in the early morning).

Tackling those things that usually fall prey to procrastination during these “high energy times” can make the job itself feel easier, can help you to be more productive, and can help you stop procrastination easily.

For the next few days, try to notice when these higher energy times of day are for you. Then use your energy on the more challenging and difficult tasks when you have higher amounts of it and leave the easier tasks for when you’re frazzled at the end of the day.

#6 Ask for help

Sometimes procrastination can just be a result of being a bit stuck with something.

You put something off because you know it’s going to be unpleasant or difficult. Asking for advice or help can be the difference between feeling totally on your own and unable to move forward, or feeling empowered and supported to keep going.

So next time you start thinking about procrastinating or putting something off, remind yourself of the impact it will have down the line.

Procrastinators can change their behaviour, but it takes a lot of self-work. In the end, it’s worth the hard work and effort.

And make sure you start today, not tomorrow.