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Free Time Management Tip - Procrastination

Protect Against Procrastination or Overload

Procrastination or feeling overloaded are two common time-wasters. There are two types of time-wasters, internal and external. Internal time wasters are those we create ourselves. These are habits or behaviors that work against us as we strive to be productive. External time wasters are those caused by outside forces or other people.
 
Even though procrastination is an "internal" time waster and "overload" is an external time waster, the steps to overcome them are similar. 
 
Step One - List specifically what you avoid or what gives you a feeling of overload. Look for trends to identify why you procrastinate or get the feeling of overload. Do you avoid tasks that bore you or ones that frustrate you?

Step Two - Identify when you procrastinate or when you feel overloaded. Is it a particular time of day, day of the week, type of project? Make necessary schedule changes to help you avoid the time waster.

Step Three - List what you do instead of the "dreaded" task or assignment. Do you do something you enjoy more? Do you try to tackle an impossible project? Identify ways to overcome your obstacles.

Step Four - Break large tasks into small tasks. Make your project or task more manageable. Set short term goals and deadlines.

Step Five - Start with the easiest step. Many people make the mistake of trying to finish the most difficult task first so they can gain a sense of accomplishment. This often leads to frustration and more procrastination or overload. If possible and logical, finish the easy tasks first and gain momentum to complete the more difficult tasks.
 
Last Step - Reward yourself when you complete something you did not want to do or you struggled to complete! A reward can be a short walk, a coffee break or a phone call to a friend. Relish in your success and energize yourself for the next task. 
 
  
 
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