We all have it: one thing that’s been sitting on the to-do list forever. You promise yourself you’ll do it soon. But then something (anything…) else comes up. So, why do we put stuff off like this?
Interestingly, procrastination isn’t about time management, reveals psychology expert and and author of Still Procrastinating? The No-Regrets Guide to Getting It Done Joseph Ferrari.
“It could be a fear of failure – if you never finish, you’ll never fail – or even a fear of success, thinking ‘If I do well, they may ask me to do better next time.’” Whatever your ‘why’, it’s time to power through. Your best day starts right here!
Make yourself accountable
Phone at the ready. Text a handful of reliable friends, admit you need to file that tax return and ask them to follow up. “Surround yourself with people who are do-ers, who’ll call you out and say ‘Hey, it’s been three days – how’s that task going?’” says Ferrari. “We know from research that if you’re held accountable, you’re more likely to do something.”
Change your self-talk
Ask yourself, what’s the worst that’ll happen if you get that report done, and not everybody loves it? Now, compare that to not doing it at all and how that’d impact on colleagues, advises Ferrari. Doing something is always better, right? “Focus on the consequences on other peoples’ lives,” he adds.
Start with one small step
When you’re overwhelmed by that project in front of you, break it down into manageable chunks. “I use the example of a forest,” says Ferrari. “Start by cutting down one tree. If that’s too much, cut off three branches and, if you can’t do that, try a handful of leaves. The point is, just start. Once you begin moving, you build up momentum to carry on.” You’ve got this!
Leave the washing up – really!
Know someone who always procrastinates when it comes to, say, washing up? How about the car they said they’d get fixed? The trick: tough love. “Don’t do it for them,” says Ferrari. “Leave those dishes and when can’t find a clean plate, maybe they’ll get busy.” Works every time.
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