How to get sh*t done

Calling all procrastinators: sometimes getting started on a new project or goal can be the hardest part. Here’s how to stop putting it off and actually press go ›

R“A rocket doesn’t launch only to stop and question whether it should continue taking off; it just shoots for the stars”

Finished can be as good as perfect

eading this as an excuse not to get started on that book idea or work project? You’re not alone. When it comes to achieving our ambitions, it can be all-too-easy to put off what needs to be done. Whether it’s because of fear, busyness or, er, a new season dropping on Netflix, there always seems to be an excuse not to take that first step. Enter transformational mindset coach Noor Hibbert, who’s created a productivity plan to get what you want. Her advice comes from experience – she describes herself as “a recovering depressive, anxiety-sufferer, life-plodder and selfconfessed drama queen”, and yet she launched a successful business now worth six figures, and forged a new career in coaching. This is her blueprint for success.

1 Visualise your dream career

Everything we see – buildings, clothes, Kylie Jenner’s Lip Kits – starts off as “a thought, a daydream or desire”, says Hibbert. “Think of a tomato seed – yes, really. The seed is the ‘idea’ behind a tomato. We don’t doubt that if we plant that seed, water it and give it sun, a tomato will appear. In the same way, our thoughts are seeds that can manifest into our goals in real life, but they won’t unless we take action.”

The first step is to decide what you really want from your career. “Imagine yourself 10 years down the line with everything you desire,” says Hibbert. Let your mind’s eye step into your future life. Now, think of five things that you would feel and believe if you actually were that person you want to become, and absorb yourself in them in the present. For example, if you were the CEO of your own company, would you feel nervous going to those networking drinks? Go along and begin to embody the person you want to become. If you desire something, feeling happy, energised and in the right frame of mind is key to taking action towards achieving it.”

2 Plot your success

Reaching your desired career position can seem distant – sometimes even impossible. So what’s the solution? Make a plan. “Set yourself 12-month goals and state them as though they have happened,” advises Hibbert. If you want to manage someone in your team, or meet a specific person who could help you, imagine you’ve already done it. “Targets that are framed in the future create a mental gap for the brain called ‘structural tension’. When you state things in the present, though, the gap is bridged, allowing you to believe your goals are possible.”

Once you have your goals, break each one down into no more than five key steps for you to work your way through (this is a process called “reverse engineering”). And beware your daily to-do list. “The seemingly endless list of menial tasks we set ourselves every day can often distract us from these longer-term goals. Look at your tasks and decide which ones need to be done in order to move forward; prioritise three. If you feel overwhelmed, walk away. Come back after 10 minutes when you’re committed to tackling one thing on your list,” says Hibbert.

3 Reframe your failures

Consider the areas in which you feel you have “failed” or could have done better.

Now, think about what or who you have apparently failed. Is it your followers on social media? Parents? Friends? “Tell yourself you are in the place in your life you need to be to move onwards to the next phase,” advises Hibbert. “It’s rare that the person or thing you feel you’ve failed will attach the same significance to the event that you have, so don’t get stuck in a space where you’re constantly falling short of imaginary expectations.” Similarly, on a day-to-day basis, we tend to focus on what we haven’t done rather than what we have achieved.

Immersing yourself in negativity is a productivity drain. Hibbert advises celebrating your victories – maybe you’ve completed a project, or hit your sales target. Take a moment to revel in the positivity of these achievements before planning the week ahead. “Then, rather than thinking, ‘I need to do this project,’ say, ‘I’m excited to do this project.’ Reframing your thoughts helps you approach your next challenge with the mindset for success.”

4 Conquer your procrastination

Putting off a task because you’re scared of failing?

Many of us call ourselves perfectionists, but the fear that we won’t complete the goal we’ve set ourselves to a high enough standard can lead to productivity paralysis. “Procrastination is a mask for self-doubt, so begin by trying to connect with where your fear comes from,” says Hibbert. “Sometimes, finished can be as good as perfect. Otherwise, you’re just standing still. Or if you’re delaying something because you find it dull or uninspiring, turn the task into a game. Think of a small reward when it’s complete, like a posh coffee or a call with a friend.” Or try the Pomodoro Technique, breaking the task down into 25-minute chunks, separated by short breaks. A deadline can be an effective motivator, so set your phone timer. By giving yourself a personal challenge, you re-engage in the activity and get it out of the way. Game on!

5 Champion your momentum

“Being able to take action without overthinking is key to creating success in all areas of your life. A rocket doesn’t launch only to stop and question whether it should continue taking off; it just shoots for the stars. Cheesy, but true. To counteract crises of confidence, act fast. Don’t spend more than five seconds thinking about starting something, and if you need a push, count down and go.” Considering sending an email to a contact who could help you with your business plan? Count down from five to zero and hit send. When you charge towards something, you gain momentum. Kick-start that by throwing yourself into one thing that makes you feel uncomfortable. What have you been putting off? Push your boundaries and just do it already. ◆