How to Prevent Procrastination

Procrastination in one form or another is a normal part of life for most people. No one really wants to clean, do laundry, complete a project for work, or run their errands right now, but eventually everything has to be completed - and some things have to be completed on a deadline. With this being said, there are two types of procrastinators - the ones who procrastinate because there are other things that are going on that are getting in the way, and others that are just putting things off.

Prioritize

One of the greatest reasons and excuses, for procrastination is because other projects are getting in the way. But is what you are working on at the moment the most important project to complete? For example, if you have a project to complete for work and you are running errands - are the errands really more important that getting the project done that will reflect on your job. It is one thing if the errands are related to getting the job done, or you are taking a break, but if you are doing your errands to avoid the project you are procrastinating. Instead of doing things when you remember or when you feel like it, make a list of what needs to be done that day, week, and month. Once you have your list, rank the items as being most important to least important, and then the tasks that can be put off if needed.

Ban the Excuses

Procrastinators are the best excuse makers in the world. Something always comes up or gets in the way of completing a task. Instead, take a look at the reason as to why you are procrastinating. Do you just not want to complete the task? Or are you overwhelmed by the task and simply don't know where to start? Once you look at why you are procrastinating, don't excuse yourself for putting the task off - especially if it is something that needs to get done. Remember, if putting things off gets you in trouble at work or at home, you are the only person that is going to be held accountable

Pace Yourself

Becoming overwhelmed with a project or task is another reason procrastination occurs. If you attempt to work on everything at once, nothing will get done. Instead, go back to prioritizing what you need to do and work on one task at a time. Also, break larger and more difficult tasks down into steps. This will prevent you from becoming stressed and overwhelmed with the task or tasks at hand.

If you are not feeling well, and have to put things off to the side (remember do not use the slight case of the sniffles as a reason not to get things done) work on the tasks that really need to be completed. If you try to get everything done, you may make yourself sicker and in the end you will have more to catch up on.

You are Responsible

In the end even with a prioritized list, banned excuses, and pacing your tasks, you are the only one who is responsible for getting things done. If you can't get everything done or caught up by yourself do not be afraid to ask for help. By procrastinating you will only overwhelm (and even get in trouble) in the end. Instead be proactive, take responsibility, and things will get done.