5 ways to kick the procrastination habit

Are you a procrastinator? Do you put off every task until the last minute? Do you often show up for appointments late because you have to rush to get things done? It may seem as though you have everything under control, but in reality, you’re overwhelmed and stressed because you have to scramble to meet your deadlines.

There might be a simple reason for your procrastination. Perhaps your current task is not an attractive one, or maybe you’ve overextended yourself. It could be that you’re surrounded by too many distractions. Whatever the reason, there are ways to avoid this. Below are some simple steps for kicking the procrastination habit.

1. Avoid Distraction – Are you easily distracted? Is the telephone or Internet a magnet for your attention? Would you rather chit chat with a co-worker who is offering the day’s gossip than focus on the matter at hand? If so, you must define your priorities. Use your distraction to your benefit. Begin your day by tackling any pressing matters. Complete each task according to priority. Know in the back of your mind that once your important tasks are completed, you can make your phone calls or visit your favorite website. If need be, leave notes on your phone or computer reminding you that work needs to be done, and note any deadlines on your calendar in big, bold, red letters.

2. Keep a realistic schedule. Perhaps the reason for your procrastination is that you have too much on your plate. Avoid being overwhelmed by making a simple schedule and sticking to this schedule. Don’t plan back to back meetings if you’re unsure you’ll make them in time. No one can be two places at once. Before you end your day, analyze the next day’s events. Schedule your most pressing matter as the first order of business for the day. Allow no distractions. Save tasks such as returning phone calls or answering emails as your last business of the day since these can be more distracting and create other tangents. Since these are also the most attractive tasks for many people, they can be considered a reward for completing an assignment.

3. Identify your most productive time of the day. Are you a morning person? Do you work best after your first cup of coffee, or do you function better after you’ve had a good workout? Is your ability to focus better after lunch? Use this time to complete your most important tasks.

4. Reward yourself. Give yourself little rewards once a task is completed. If it’s a small daily task, allow yourself a cup of flavored coffee or a favorite snack. If it’s a major task, celebrate a job well done with a nice meal or movie rental.

5. Don’t accept a task unless you’re sure it can be done in a timely manner and to the best of your ability. You may take on more than you can handle because it will look good on your resume or employment record, but an employer would be more interested in how well you complete a task and that you meet your deadline, than if you turn in rushed results at the very last minute.

It’s always good to identity goals. For instance, is there a promotion or bonus in your future as a reward for a job well done? With this light at the end of the tunnel, you can focus on the task in front of you, rather than all the distractions.. If need be, enlist the help of those around you. Ask them to hold your calls, or to stay away from your desk until your task is completed. Once the fruits of your labor have been recognized in a positive manner, you’re sure to put off procrastination.