You’re quite possibly procrastinating right now.
So let’s get straight to it so we can both get back to work.
8 strategies for conquering procrastination.
1.) Carrot (or Doughnut)
Set yourself a reward. When you complete the task, enjoy the reward. Simple. Research that summer holiday, treat yourself to a chocolate doughnut. Maybe even two. You deserve it because you’ve completed the task.
Setting rewards works. In sales environments, studies show that having pictures of what you desire around you motivate you to work harder. So print out and stick up that picture of a low-resolution Krispy Kreme.
2.) Book it
By blocking out time in your calendar for a task, you encourage yourself to treat it like an event such as a meeting (or after work drinks?). Therefore, you're more likely to turn up and attend. Why not invite a trusted colleague to the "event" so they can nag you to do it? (See next)
3.) Get nagged
Tell someone you will complete a task by a time and date. Get them to check up on you (and poke you with a pencil if they sit within range). A confidant, friend, mentor, coach, spouse. Whoever it is, you’d be surprised how having someone nag works. We don’t like to let people down. An accountability partner works wonders for getting things done.
4.) Tech
Get a time tracking or productivity app. This one is great. There are many others out there too. Some stop you from using your computer for any other purpose than writing for example. Also, lock that phone in a drawer or give it to someone you trust to hold onto until you finish the task.
5.) Break it down
Breaking down the big task into smaller tasks using the SMART method. Be clear on exactly what it is you want to do. “Finish Presentation” sounds a lot scarier than "Finish title page and slides 1 to 5 by 6.30pm today” Write it down. Set yourself mini goals so you keep winning and feeling good (and eating doughnuts)
6.) Finish something mid sent….
The “Zeigarnik" effect is a psychological principle which states that your brains seek closure. Your brain hates leaving simple things unfinished. It will keep thinking about that simple task long after you’ve left the office.
So try and end the work day mid-sentence. When you get to your desk the next day you're thankful to be able to complete it. Immediately you are in the flow again of working.
NB - if you are unable to sleep at night worrying about the lack of closure then this might not be the right strategy for you!
7.) Environment
Face it, we know we work better in some environments than others. If you need to get something done then be in that place where you know it will get done. The work I least enjoy (dreaded admin) is best done at my local coffee shop, with a flat white, noise cancelling headphones and a really stern look on my face. What about you?
8.) Dumping or Swapping
Sounds strange, but does the task you’ve been putting off even need to be done? And if so, does it need to be done by you?
Projects evolve. Priorities change. Take time to consider this. Maybe it’s not so important anymore?
Procrastination often occurs because doing other activities are more enjoyable.
Is there someone you can exchange tasks with?
Maybe someone in your department loves creating beautiful presentations whilst you begrudgingly whip them up at the last minute using 'thinking Clipart question mark guy' on every slide.
And they hate working on spreadsheets but you love it.
Any chance of swapping?
A Final Thought
Doing things we enjoy, are good at, and give us meaning, leads to success and career satisfaction. Procrastination is minimised. If you experience procrastination chronically then maybe the problem is the job or the role you're in. In which case it might be time for a change.