7 Simple Ways To Overcoming Procrastination

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We all have things we’d like to accomplish, but we just don’t have time to do them. We find ourselves saying that we will start tomorrow or after work.

Tomorrow never comes and before you know it, weeks have passed. Procrastination is a problem that can be resolved with discipline and focus.

Commit yourself to beating procrastination by following these seven simple strategies. If you commit to taking action today, I promise you won’t regret it. After one week of practicing these habits, your life will change dramatically.

Here are 7 ways to overcome procrastination:

#1 – Take Small Steps Towards Your Goal

Don’t think about how big of a project you need to complete in order to reach your goal. Think about how small of an action you need to take in order to reach that goal.

For example, if you want to lose weight, think about walking around your block as opposed to running five miles every day. The small steps lead to success!

#2 – Write Down Your Goals And Post Them Where You Can See Them

Posting your goals where you can see them on a daily basis serves two purposes.

First, it reminds you of what you’re working towards and second, it keeps you accountable for making progress towards those goals.

Writing down your goals also helps clarify what they actually are so that when people ask what your goals are, you can tell them exactly what they are without having to think about it too much.

#3 – Identify What Is Preventing You From Taking Action

There are many reasons why you might not be able to take action on something. Perhaps there is someone in your life who has been putting pressure on you to not follow through with something or maybe there is a lack of resources available to help you get started.

Whatever it may be, identify what is preventing you from taking action and then create a plan for overcoming that obstacle.

#4 – Schedule Time To Work On Your Project Into Your Calendar

One of my favorite quotes is “The only way to make time for what matters most is to prioritize it.” -Laura Vanderkam

Schedule time into your calendar everyday (or at least several times per week) that you will work on whatever it is that you are trying to accomplish. This allows you to put it on your schedule and stick to it because you made a commitment to yourself.

It also prevents other people from interrupting you while you are working because they know that your time is already accounted for.

#5 – Create A Support Network Of People Who Believe In You

Surround yourself with positive people who believe in your ability to achieve greatness. Surrounding yourself with negative naysayers will only serve as distractions and prevent you from reaching your full potential.

Find a mentor, join a mastermind group, or even just meet up with friends who share your same interests.

The more support you have, the better off you’ll be.

#6 – Eliminate Distractions

Turn off your phone and close out of social media apps on your computer. Remove any distractions that could potentially prevent you from getting work done. Studies show that it takes about 25 minutes to refocus after being interrupted. Make sure you are giving yourself enough uninterrupted time to get things done.

#7 – Reward Yourself

Set goals for yourself and reward yourself when you reach them. The key is to set realistic goals that are within your control.

You can’t force yourself to be productive, but you can motivate yourself with rewards. Give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done and enjoy that ice cream cone or new pair of shoes you’ve been wanting.