THE PSYCHOLOGY OF PROCRASTINATION AND HOW TO OVERCOME IT

Overcoming Procrastination: Strategies for Success

If you are a procrastinator, you will find every excuse not to do what you need to do. Here is a thought: do it first. I call it reverse procrastination. - Jeff Goins

We are often lost in the world of procrastination, which can affect almost every aspect of our lives. It is a challenging habit to overcome, but with deliberate effort and targeted strategies, it is possible to conquer it.

People who procrastinate often are aware of what they must accomplish in order to achieve their goals, possess the required skills, yet fail to take action. So, why do we really procrastinate? There are many reasons such as thinking that the task to be done is boring, anxiety and fear, perfectionism, low motivation, pessimism, lack of time management skills, feeling overwhelmed, and many more.

How to overcome procrastination?

1. Set SMART goals:
   • Specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time-bound goals ensure that you have a clear direction and are more likely to follow through.
2. Break your larger goals into smaller chunks:
   • Breaking down your goals into manageable tasks makes them less overwhelming and easier to accomplish.
3. Increase your focus:
   • Identify the time of day when you are most productive and create a suitable environment by removing distractions like your mobile phone or TV.
4. Find motivation:
   • Solve the motivational problem associated with procrastination by visualizing yourself completing the task. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of completing it now versus postponing it.
5. Set deadlines:
   • Create deadlines for each task. Remind yourself why these deadlines matter and the consequences of not meeting them. This can help you stay on track and complete tasks in a timely manner.
6. Prioritize your tasks:
   • Evaluate each task on your list and determine if it is urgent, important, both, or neither. Start with tasks that are both urgent and important. Schedule important but non-urgent tasks for later. Delegate tasks that are urgent but not important. Eliminate tasks that are neither urgent nor important.

By implementing these strategies, you can develop healthier approaches to managing procrastination. Remember, it's a gradual process that requires patience and persistence!