Procrastination is a common habit that affects many people. It can be detrimental to productivity and cause unnecessary stress and anxiety. However, there are strategies that you can use to overcome procrastination and boost your productivity. In this article, we will discuss some effective strategies for overcoming procrastination and increasing your productivity.
1. Set SMART Goals
To not let procrastination get the better of you, it is highly beneficial to establish specific and attainable objectives, along with deadlines for their completion. This technique gives one a clear purpose and creates a sense of urgency, thereby motivating a person to start working. When establishing goals, it is crucial to follow the SMART criteria: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Adhering to this methodology ensures that a person’s objectives are clearly-defined and practical, thus elevating the likelihood of achieving them.
2. Break Down Bigger Tasks Into Smaller Pieces
A useful strategy to overcome procrastination is to break bigger tasks into smaller, more manageable functions. This can make the task feel more doable and less overwhelming, which can help boost motivation. By breaking tasks down into smaller pieces, you can move forward more consistently and feel a sense of accomplishment.
3. Use the Pomodoro Technique
The Pomodoro technique is a time management method that involves working for a set period, usually 25 minutes, and taking a short break after each work session. This technique can help individuals with short attention spans stay focused and avoid distractions while working. By working in short sprints and taking breaks frequently, one can stay motivated and energized throughout the day.
4. Remove Distractions
Distractions are one of the biggest roadblocks to productivity. To overcome procrastination and improve your productivity, eliminate distractions from your environment. Turn off mobile devices or put them on silent mode, close unnecessary browser tabs, and avoid social media during work sessions. If you work in a noisy environment, consider using noise-canceling headphones or earplugs.
5. Use Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement can be an effective strategy to beat procrastination and get work done. Reward oneself after completing a task or achieving a goal. The reward can be anything from taking a short break to having a treat or doing something you enjoy.
6. Organize Your Work Station
One major reason why people procrastinate is that they get overwhelmed by the pile of work they need to get done. A cluttered workstation can further aggravate this feeling. For instance, if someone is unable to find what they need to finish a task, they might procrastinate and end up wasting precious time.
To overcome this problem, one needs to organize and declutter their workstation. Clear the workstation of unnecessary items and only keep those items that will help you reach your goals.
7. Be Accountable
Being accountable to someone else for one’s tasks can serve as a robust incentive. It is worthwhile to seek out an accountability partner or a support group to remain aligned with your objectives. Doing so can provide motivation and accountability, and it also establishes a sense of responsibility to another individual besides yourself.
8. Seek Help
In situations where it is difficult to start a task, seeking guidance or assistance from a colleague, mentor, or friend can be helpful. Sometimes, all it takes is a little push or support to begin. Do not hesitate to request help whenever necessary. This is also a great way to learn from someone who possesses greater expertise or experience in the given area.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, procrastination can be a challenging habit to overcome, but you can use the above-mentioned strategies to increase your productivity. With a little effort and practice, you can surely achieve your goals, meet deadlines, and make the most of the time you have at hand.
Kim Dalius, of Los Angeles, California, is a success coach and Owner of Mental Minutes Success Coaching. Through her services, Kimberly Dalius helps people to realize their true potential and reach new levels of success in both their personal and professional lives.
