5 Ways To Beat Procrastination

It’s Friday afternoon, and time is running out. You’re rushing to finish a task before the four o’clock deadline, quietly regretting that you didn’t start sooner. What happened? Procrastination is the habit of delaying an important task, usually by focusing on less urgent and more enjoyable activities instead. Luckily, just like any habit – procrastination can be beaten! Recognizing that you’re procrastinating is the first step in overcoming it. Then, identify the reasons behind your behaviour and implement strategies to overcome it. Follow these easy tips to break your habit today!

1.  Acknowledge and understand why you’re procrastinating

The first step to beating procrastination is understanding the reasons behind why you aren’t getting anything done! Are you avoiding a particular task because it is difficult or just boring? If so, getting those tasks out of the way will allow you to focus on the jobs that are more enjoyable. Just think – the sooner you complete your skin theory, the closer you will be able to practice facials on your friends!

2.  Focus on doing, not avoiding – create a to-do list!

Commit to the tasks that need to be done by writing a to-do-list in order of highest priorities to lowest. Assign deadlines and time frames for each task, this will help you to proactively tackle your work.

3.  Tackle the most difficult tasks at your peak times

It is important to identify when you are most productive, are you a morning or an evening person? Complete the most daunting tasks in the periods you work most effectively.

4.  Minimise distractions

Whilst tackling an important task, setting your phone to DO NOT DISTURB will be your best friend! Turning off your notifications, emails and social media for blocks of time will help you resist any temptations to procrastinate.

5.  Promise yourself a reward

If you complete a difficult task on time, reward yourself with a treat, such as a piece of cake or a coffee from your favourite coffee shop. Also make sure you are mindful of how good it feels to finish tasks, because that’s truly a reward in itself!

6.  Recite this mantra

I know we only promised 5 tips, but here’s a bonus mantra for those moments you are feeling stuck. When you find yourself doom-scrolling social media or unable to move in freeze-mode, try proclaiming out loud “I move in the direction of my values”. This quick mantra should lead to a mind shift and help you take affirmative action. For more of our favourite mantras, check out this post.