The summer holidays are now coming to an end, and people are getting ready to go back to work and also prepare the kids for school. It is normal to take some time to get back into the groove of your routine after the holidays, however procrastination should be avoided as it can make things worse.
According to The Now Habit– a book by Neil Fiore that offers a seven-step program for overcoming procrastination defines procrastination as the act of avoiding or delaying tasks that need to be done, despite knowing that they are important or necessary.
She also adds that it can be a chronic problem that interferes with productivity and can cause anxiety and stress. Some of the factors that can contribute to procrastination include a lack of motivation, fear of failure, perfectionism, and anxiety.
The author also gives out strategies to overcome procrastination:
- Break down tasks into smaller, more manageable pieces.
- Set short-term goals and reward yourself for completing them.
- Identify the thoughts and feelings that trigger procrastination.
- Use the “2-minute rule” – if a task takes less than 2 minutes to complete, do it immediately.
- Eliminate distractions and create a dedicated space for work.
In conclusion, procrastination is a common problem that can negatively impact various areas of life, including work, school, and personal relationships. However, by understanding the underlying causes of procrastination and implementing practical strategies, it is possible to overcome this obstacle and become more productive.
It is important to remember that progress is more important than perfection, and that taking small steps in the right direction is better than waiting for the perfect moment to start. As Neil Fiore said, “Procrastination is not a character flaw, it’s a habit.” By changing our habits, we can all learn to overcome procrastination.
Also see: 5 Tips to make a successful back to work transition
