Sometimes even though you know what needs to be done, you just can’t muster up the energy or willpower to actually do it.
Procrastination is a beast. And it’s a problem that plagues already stressed out solopreneurs everywhere. I mean, how many times has your to-do list been so overwhelming that you turned off your computer and took a nap instead?
We’ve all been there, and while constant bouts of procrastination are a sign that you need to restructure the way you do business (seriously), there are some ways you can take action that will give you the productivity boost you need to take on your work head-on.
#1: Identify The Source
Before you can overcome procrastination, you need to figure out where that overwhelming feeling comes from. There are multiple sources for this problem.
It could be because you feel overwhelmed by the amount of work left on your list. Or perhaps it’s how you feel about the task itself. If you find yourself avoiding writing that article or making those sales calls, chances are it’s because you’re not entirely sure you’ll be good at it.
If writing is crushing your dreams right now, the solution isn’t to quit or give up. Instead, consider taking a class or signing up for coaching in order to overcome this particular challenge. Sometimes all you need in order to start getting things done is a little extra support.
#2: Take Small Steps
Once you’ve figured out the underlying factor that’s causing you to procrastinate, your next step is to take small steps towards overcoming it. Here are a few ideas.
Set A Timer
Set the clock for 15 minutes and challenge yourself to complete as much of the task as you can within that time frame. When the timer goes off, you can stop if you want to, but chances are once you start, it’ll be hard to stop midway through because momentum is a powerful thing.
Do One Thing At A Time
If you find yourself overwhelmed with everything on your to-do list, try picking one small task and focusing all of your attention on it. Multitasking is bad for productivity, and you’re more likely to accomplish your tasks if you only focus on one thing at a time.
Break Down Tasks
It’s easy to get overwhelmed or discouraged when you’ve got a million things left to do. When that happens, break down your list into something more realistic. Instead of looking at a handful of tasks, break everything up into smaller steps and schedule them out for the week.
#3: Get Help
If you’re still struggling to get your work done, look for help from others who may be able to provide insight or guidance. Oftentimes we avoid reaching out and admitting that we don’t have all the answers because we want to seem like we’ve got our stuff together.
It’s okay to ask for help sometimes. And that could look like asking your partner to clean up the house so you could meet a deadline or hiring an assistant to help with specific tasks. Whatever you do, just remember you don’t have to do it all yourself.
#4: Create An Action Plan
All of this can feel overwhelming, so create an action plan that will help you stay on track.
Write Out Tasks (And How Much Time They Take)
Then, start working one step at a time. When you’re finished with that task, move on to the next one. Follow through with your plan and don’t give up if something goes wrong or not as planned. The most important thing is that you continue moving forward.
Create Deadlines
If you have a tendency to go overboard with your work or want everything done yesterday, set specific deadlines for yourself and commit to completing the task within that time frame. That way, if something does come up unexpectedly, you won’t be as stressed about meeting those self-imposed deadlines.
Use Reminders
If you’re forgetful, then set alarms or use sticky notes as reminders to stay on track. Procrastination is a hard habit to break, but once you start getting things done, it’ll be easier the next time around.
#5: Reward Yourself
Rewarding yourself is a great way to stay motivated and help you get through difficult times of procrastination. Write down all the things you want as rewards and cross them off as they are completed. This way you will always have something to look forward to!
Conclusion
Remember that even the most successful people experience procrastination now and again. So don’t beat yourself up about it! It’s okay if you have bad days where nothing gets done.
But if you find yourself in a cycle of procrastination, it’s like a sign that you need to re-evaluate how you run your business. If you need help getting things clear, click here to schedule a discovery call with me!
[learn_press_profile]
