I think most of us would agree that procrastination is probably the biggest waster of time that there is. Quite often the job takes less time than the procrastination itself.
The problem with constant procrastination is because it creates a psychological mountain out of a mole hill, by the time we start the task we are probably feeling stressed and uptight. Sometimes we are own worst enemies as we do not even recognise we are suffering from this time stealing habit.
Alongside procrastination there is the busy mentality we buy into. Let's face it there is a sort of kudos in today's world about having so much to do. It makes us feel important and needed. What is also interesting is that the definition of one persons busyness compared to another can be quite different.
Having done spoken to lots of people and done a little research on the subject here are some ideas to eliminate the procrastination habit, which in turn may help to free up some precious time.
1. Get into the habit of keeping a daily "To Do List" -or as I spoke in the last newsletter the What Have I Done List. That way you are less likely to forget something that is urgent and important.
2. Those of us that procrastinate often have an unrealistic sense of time. We either start believing that a project will take forever. (So we never can find the time to start it). Alternatively, we do not allow enough time to get the task completed comfortably. See my article on clearing out the rabbits. Remember even five minutes is enough time to complete something. This could be some filing at work or sorting out the cutlery cupboard or making a telephone call
3. If you are finding "starting" the task difficult - remember not all tasks need to be started at the "beginning". If it is a difficult letter or a report which needs your attention - make a start and go back to the beginning later.
4. Try to action things as they appear, this way you will end up with less of a backlog.
5. Are you making the task more difficult? Sometimes there is a simpler, quicker solution. Try to be flexible in how you approach tasks. Think delegate, Fake not bake. Not so much finite detail. Most importantly stop aiming at perfection.
6. If there are particular types of projects you consistently procrastinate over, think about why. It could be that the information you need is not conveniently accessible. Or maybe there is an emotional reason for your reluctance to action your task or project e.g. confidence.
7. If you can not establish why you continually procrastinate over a particular task. Ask yourself if you really want or need to do it.
8. Schedule for problems and setbacks. By expecting problems and difficulties you may find yourself motivated to start the project earlier.
9. Plan a reason to motivate yourself into action. If it is a home based activity that you have not managed to get round to. Invite friends round and use this as your motivation to complete the tasks before their visit.
10. Tell someone else your deadline and give permission for them to remind you.
11. Listen to your moods. Use your energy to get tasks completed. For example gardening, washing the floor are great when you are frustrated or angry. Feeling overwhelmed - have a clearout.
12. Be opportunistic. Utilise "dead" time. If someone is running late, is there a phone call you can make. What five minute task can you do while you are waiting. Not only will you be able to tick something off your to do list you are less likely to be irritated by their lateness.
Diana Groves is the Editor of the Website http://www.helpforbusymums.com We aim to provide time saving tips and simple solutions for busy mums. Visit us and join our community.
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