Overcoming Procrastination

Procrastination can work for you as well as against you. Identifying which category each procrastination item fits into lessons overwhelm and assists in getting things done in a timely manner. By letting go of a lot of negative self-talk we can use the energy we save for more productive uses. Step 1 Consider the cause & characteristics The first step is to consider the knowledge around what procrastination actually is and what causes it. Please remember that although there may be many 'causes', the procrastinator is always the one choosing the specific cause or reason for procrastination. The following 'causes' are common False beliefs Many procrastinators are convinced that they work better under pressure, or they'll feel better about tackling the work later. Fear of failure "The main reason people procrastinate is fear," says Neil Fiore, Ph.D., author of The Now Habit. Procrastinators fear they'll fall short because they don't have the requisite talent or skills. Perfectionism Procrastinators tend to be perfectionists--and they're in overdrive because they're insecure. People who do their best because they want to win don't procrastinate; but those who feel they must be perfect to please others often put things off. Self-control Impulsivity may seem diametrically opposed to procrastination, but both can be part of a larger problem: self-control. People who are impulsive may not be able to prioritize intentions. So, while writing a article you break for a snack and see a spill in the refrigerator, which leads to cleaning the entire kitchen. Punitive parenting Children of authoritarian parents are prone to procrastinate. Task-related anxieties Procrastination can be associated with specific situations. Even the least procrastination-prone individuals put off taxes and visits to the dentist. Unclear expectations Ambiguous directions and vague priorities increase procrastination. The boss who asserts that everything is high priority and due yesterday is more likely to be kept waiting. Supervisors who insist on "prioritizing the Jones project and using the Smith plan as a model" see greater productivity. Depression The blues can lead to or exacerbate procrastination--and vice versa. Several symptoms of depression feed procrastination. Decision-making is another problem. Because depressed people can't feel much pleasure, all options seem equally bleak, which makes getting started difficult and pointless. Other characteristics Low Self-Confidence - I'm Too Busy Stubbornness Manipulation Coping with Pressures A Frustrated Victim Step 2 Don't be to hard on yourself Please note that procrastination can be really severe in terms of your health, your family