5 Tips to Kicking Procrastination to the Curb

Kacey Toews
November 04, 2021
Newsletter Article

No matter how productive you are, procrastination can get the best of anyone! Whether you are putting off a big project or a task that you dread, procrastination can creep up and cause chaos in your workday. Unfortunately, there is not one magic product or trick to help your procrastination, but these 5 tips can help you take a step in the right direction and get you back on track.

1. Identify the first step

With so much on your plate, sometimes it is hard to figure out where to start. Identifying that first step will aide in kicking procrastination to the curb. Making that first step will ease your mind and help you get organized to complete the rest of the tasks ahead.

2. Block out time in your calendar

Giving yourself a specific period of time to complete a task is something that is super helpful to help you manage your day or project. This allows you to stay focused and committed to working on a task during a given time. It works best if you stick to the specific period of time. I have been guilty of moving things around in my calendar or pushing them out, avoid this if possible! If you are completing a task that takes some more though, a good tip is setting a timer for 20 mins and work on that project or task in batches. Powering through 20 minutes at a time helps me stay focused without burning out.

3. Give yourself an early deadline

There is nothing worse than trying to scramble to get something done a day or two ahead of a big deadline. I always try to allow myself wiggle room and set my own deadline at least a week ahead of the real deadline. Add both dates in your calendar to ensure they are on your radar so you can complete the project or task on time!

4. Treat yourself

Give yourself an incentive for completing your project ahead of the deadline. Procrastination does nothing but add stress so I would encourage you to have a goal in mind to treat yourself after completing a deadline early. Whether it’s a special coffee, favorite snack or a fun activity, use it to motivate you to complete your to-do list.

5. Eliminate distractions

Some people work great with music or background noise while others need complete silence. Find what works best for you and make sure your environment is set accordingly. I personally must have some sort of background noise, so I always have a podcast going while working. I also work better if I can see out a window, so I set my desk facing a window. Figure out what times of the day you are most productive as well. If you are more productive in the morning, block your calendar out during that time to knock out your to-do list.

These are just a few examples of how to become more productive during your workday and not procrastinate, although easier said than done. I encourage you to find what works best for you and your work style. It may take some trial and error but stay the course and you will kick procrastination to the curb in no time!

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