Feel stuck? Strategies to keep moving, get stuff done
People procrastinate for a number of reasons, points out verywellmind.com. While verywellmind.com's advice may assist some procrastinators, the act of procrastination may be a sign of deeper psychological struggles with selfdoubt, low self-esteem, anxiety or insecurity, suggested The New York Times.The “vicious” cycle of habitual procrastination may be aided with counseling.
The following might also help:
• Perfectionism: not wanting to do anything unless it can be done “perfectly”
A fix: Keep perfectionism at bay and strive for “good enough.”
• Intimidation: tasks seem too overwhelming
Fixes: Make a list of tasks and note how long each should take to complete. Do quick tasks first and mark them off the list. Break a large job up into parts, if possible, and tackle the easy aspects first. Or, get the difficult facets out of the way and leave the easy stuff for the home stretch.
• Stress: an inability to focus
Fixes: Dangle a reward, such as attending a show, visiting friends or a bubble bath, after task completion. Avoid the temptation of distracting time-stealers such as a television series or social media.
• Fatigue: too worn out to even begin
Fixes: Pay attention to how much energy the task will take and accomplish daunting projects, such as cleaning windows or organizing an attic, for when personal energy levels are highest.
• Pessimism: having the mindset that accomplishing a task will not make a difference.
Fixes: Optimistically highlight the positive, beneficial factors associated with a task and minimize negative thoughts.