From Dragging Your Feet to Crushing Deadlines: 7 Tips to Beat Procrastination in the Workplace
Procrastination. We've all been there. You know that feeling of dread that creeps up when you're facing a mountain of tasks, yet you find yourself scrolling through social media or doing anything but what you should be doing. As a performance coach, I've seen procrastination derail many a career, so I'm here to share some tips on how to kick that procrastination habit to the curb and become a productivity ninja.
First things first, let's get one thing straight: procrastination is not a character flaw. It's a behavior, and like any behavior, it can be changed. So let's dive into some of the reasons why we procrastinate and what we can do about it.
One of the main reasons people procrastinate is because they're overwhelmed. When you have a lot on your plate, it's easy to feel like you don't even know where to start. That feeling can be paralyzing, leading to inaction. One way to combat overwhelm is to break down your tasks into smaller, more manageable pieces. Instead of looking at a project as a whole, break it down into smaller tasks that can be completed in bite-sized chunks. This not only makes the task at hand feel more achievable, but it also provides a sense of progress as you check off each item on your to-do list.
Another reason for procrastination is fear. Fear of failure, fear of success, fear of the unknown. Whatever the fear may be, it can hold you back from taking action. The best way to combat fear is to reframe it. Instead of focusing on the potential negative outcomes, focus on the positive. What will you gain by taking action? What will happen if you don't take action? Use these positive outcomes as motivation to get started.
Procrastination can also be a result of boredom. Let's face it, some tasks are just plain dull. When you're not excited about a task, it's easy to put it off. One way to combat boredom is to find ways to make the task more interesting or enjoyable. Maybe it's putting on your favorite music or working in a different environment. Find ways to make the task more engaging and you'll be more likely to tackle it head-on.
So, how do we get a kick up the arse to stop procrastinating and start being productive in the workplace?
Here are some tips to help:
Start with the why: When we're faced with a task that we don't feel like doing, it's important to remind ourselves of why it's important. What's the end goal? How will completing this task help us achieve our overall objectives? By focusing on the bigger picture, we can find the motivation we need to get started.
Break it down: Sometimes, the reason we procrastinate is that a task feels overwhelming. One way to overcome this is by breaking the task down into smaller, more manageable pieces. Set achievable goals for each step, and reward yourself for completing them. By taking it one step at a time, you'll feel more in control and less likely to procrastinate.
Get organized: Being disorganized can lead to procrastination, as we're not sure where to start or what to prioritize. Take the time to organize your workspace and create a to-do list. This will help you stay on track and focused on the task at hand.
Find your peak time: We all have times of the day when we're more productive than others. Identify when you're most alert and focused, and schedule your most important tasks during that time. This will help you make the most of your energy and minimize the likelihood of procrastination.
Minimize distractions: It's no secret that distractions can lead to procrastination. Take steps to minimize distractions, such as turning off your phone, closing unnecessary tabs on your computer, and finding a quiet space to work. By creating a focused work environment, you'll be more productive and less likely to procrastinate.
Get an accountability partner: Sometimes, all we need is a little push from someone else. Find a colleague or friend who can hold you accountable for your work. Share your goals with them, and check in regularly to update them on your progress. Having someone else to answer to can be a powerful motivator to stop procrastinating and start working.
Try the five-minute rule (My personal favorite): The five-minute rule is a simple but effective technique to overcome procrastination. The idea is to commit to working on a task for just five minutes. After the timer goes off, you can choose to stop if you want. In most cases, people continue working after the five minutes are up, but knowing that they have the option to stop can be a powerful motivator to start the task. This technique can help break the cycle of procrastination and help you become more productive. Give it a try next time you're struggling to get started on a task!
As a leadership and performance coach, my goal is to help people unlock their confidence and become the best version of themselves. If you're struggling with procrastination in the workplace, don't be afraid to ask for help. Whether it's through coaching, training, or mentorship, there are resources available to help you overcome procrastination and achieve your goals.
So, here's my call to action: take action! Identify one small step you can take today to overcome procrastination in the workplace. Whether it's organizing your workspace, setting achievable goals, or finding an accountability partner, take action and start making progress towards your goals.
Procrastination is a common challenge that we all face, but with the right strategies, we can overcome it and achieve our goals. By implementing these tips, such as setting clear goals, breaking tasks into smaller steps, and taking breaks, you can develop good habits that promote productivity and success in the workplace. Remember that overcoming procrastination takes time and practice, but the benefits are worth the effort. So, the next time you find yourself procrastinating, try out these strategies and see what works for you. Take action now and start building the habits that will help you become the best version of yourself in your professional and personal life!
