| Of all the self-inflicted time management pains, procrastination is one of the most painful—over time. Procrastination is a trap that many of us fall into. In fact, most of us procrastinate to some degree. While it may be comforting to know that you’re not alone, it can be sobering to realize just how much it can hold you back. | |
Procrastination is often confused with laziness, but they’re very differentProcrastination is an active process—you choose to do something else instead of the task that you know you should be doing. In contrast, laziness suggests apathy, inactivity, and an unwillingness to act. Procrastination usually involves ignoring an unpleasant—but likely more important task—in favor of one that is more enjoyable or easier. But giving in to this impulse can have serious consequences. For example, even minor episodes of procrastination can make you feel guilty or ashamed. It can lead to reduced productivity and cause you to miss out on achieving your goals. |
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Warning: Deadlines are closer than they appearProcrastinators typically contend that they perform better under pressure, but research shows that’s not the case—more often than not that’s their way of justifying putting things off. |
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| If we procrastinate over a long period of time, we can become demotivated and disillusioned with our work, which can lead to depression and even job loss, in extreme cases. Opportunity knocks just as often for the procrastinator as for anyone else. The procrastinator finds something easy to do instead of answering the door. | |
How to kick procrastination to the curbSet a deadline |
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| Do the most unpleasant part first Starting with the most unpleasant part of a task makes good sense. You’re at a higher level of energy at the beginning of a task, and therefore better able to attack the unpleasantries with vigor. Put the ugly part behind you quickly. |
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| Make it a game Beat the clock… more this hour than last hour… use your imagination and invent a game to counter any unpleasantness. You can play alone or involve others. Build in a reward Ask someone to check up on you |
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