Practical Strategies to End Procrastination

In Part 1 of this series, we shared insight into the causes of procrastination. We discovered how procrastination often disguises itself in an alternative activity. We observed how habitual procrastination could result in chronic stress. Lastly, we focused on Three Essential Tips to program your mind to override the tendency to procrastinate. If you missed this valuable part of the series, you can check it out here.

In todayr's post, we are going to share 6 Practical Strategies that boost your motivation . . .
To start your tasks as soon as possible,
To accomplish your tasks on time or even earlier,
To tackle your tasks with maximum effort and energy!

Practical Strategies to Permanently End Procrastination

Practical Strategy #1: Time Yourself

Timing your tasks has become an extremely popular strategy for overriding procrastination. Itr's easy to apply and it really gets you pumped to accomplish your task.

Herer's how it works:

You need a timer. The timer is your new boss. The timer rules -- no exceptions.

First, you set the timer for one task, ideally 20-30 minutes .You work continuously on the one task without any diversion whatsoever.

When the time rings, you re-set it for 5 10 minutes. During this time, you take a break. Step away from your desk. Do something completely different: eat a snack, play music, look out the window, exercise, watch TV. Just make sure whatever you do is not work-related.

When the timer rings again, re-set it for another 25 minutes. Immerse yourself in the single-task focus for the set time.
Then re-set the timer for another 5 10 minute non-work related break activity.

This is known as the Pomodoro technique, named after the originator. Each set of work and break times is known as one Pomodoro. Aim for four Pomodoro's and you will see your tasks completed.

If you finish the task before the set time, then begin the next one until the timer rings. On the other hand, if 30 minutes seems too short, then stretch it out.

The magic is the timer. Its outside influence is very strong and energizing -- much more so than just thinking about the time in your mind.

The single-minded focus on the task relieved by short breaks forces you to get the job done while the breaks prevent fatigue.

Have fun with this one!

Practical Strategy #2: Reward Yourself

Nothing motivates people more than a reward at the end of a long and tedious task. You dont have to indulge in expensive gifts. Treat yourself to a movie, a walk in fresh air, or a special snack.

Stick to simple, pleasurable activities your due compensation for not procrastinating.

Soon you'll discover your type of rewards that motivate you on even the most challenging tasks.

Practical Strategy #3: Set Punishments

Now for the flipside, perhaps a little draconian . . .

If you reward yourself when you do not procrastinate,
then should you punish yourself when you do procrastinate?

Self-imposed discipline will keep you on track with good work habits and lower stress levels.

Here are some types of self-imposed discipline:

- Avoid watching TV the whole day

- Avoid Facebook for 24 hours

- Anonymously send a lot of money to someone whom you dislike with all your might

Obviously, these punishments are meant to keep you on track so you take your work seriously. Focus on what needs to be done at all times and I guarantee you will never have to face your own punishments.

Practical Strategy #4: Involve Other People

Dont try to accomplish this all by yourself. Countering the habit of procrastination is a battle with the mind.

Invite someone to monitor your actions -- a close friend, co-worker, or relative, as suits the situation. You are accountable to that person.

If you dont meet your deadline, they should admonish you! IMAGE

Let that happen and be sure to take it seriously. they are your support network.

Beating procrastination can be difficult without the help of family and close friends.

So, dont take your support network for granted! Maybe you can do the same for them at some time.

Practical Strategy #5: Change Your Beliefs and Values About Time

Time is like cash; when you spend it frivolously or haphazardly, itr's gone forever. And it always disappears too soon!

You can never recover those hours you wasted on unimportant activities.

What you can do:
Start changing your beliefs and values about time.
Your time is a scarce and essential resource. View it that way. Respect and honor it. Spend it wisely.

Are you spending a lot of time on unimportant, time-consuming activities? If so, you must make the conscious choice either to limit or even avoid those activities altogether.

Get in the habit of asking yourself, Is this the best use of my time at this moment?

Do it now so you dont commit the same mistakes in the future.

We already know what happens when a person runs out of time to complete all the things that he needs to do anger, frustration, regret.
So, exercise the foresight to avoid this unnecessary stress.

Practical Strategy #6: Assert Your Right To Use Time Wisely

Some people feel pressured or obligated to acquiesce to any and all invitations from friends, family and coworkers.

Sure, itr's healthy to socialize. But not when it impinges on your schedule. You make this determination.

Remember: Time rules. And it doesnt wait.

You have to learn how to say no to unimportant invitations. You know best when you need your time for more important tasks and obligations.

If your associations are accustomed to passive compliance with visiting, you can expect them to react with questions and even negative attitude.

So, just be sure to explain the reason youre declining some activities that you used to attend regularly.

People who truly know and care about you will immediately understand what youre trying to do. As for the rest If they fail to appreciate your self-help efforts, do they really deserve any your time?

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