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Time Management Tips - How to Break the Procrastination Habit Using 5 Easy, Compassionate Questions
Time management tips can only help you increase productivity when you translate them into effective action. If you procrastinate, all the time in the world won't help you complete your important project!
The language of procrastination is full of "have to" and "should". Wouldn't you like to banish those words from your thoughts? The good news is, you can. Procrastination can be eradicated only with compassion, not harshness or urgency. Approaching the following questions with an open mind will stimulate your creativity and incentive to get the job done.
To gain the maximum effectiveness from this exercise, write down your responses. Engagement is the essential first step to getting needed traction.
5 Compassionate Questions to End Procrastination:
Question #1: What is a more satisfying alternative to procrastinating? How can you give yourself the success and happiness you deserve?
Select one task you keep putting off. Shall you do it, drop it from your list or delegate it? Which is the most rewarding, and why? Notice how you are in charge of the outcome. This undercuts the "I have to but I don't want to" resentment that can feed procrastination. If you decide to go forward with the activity, use the following steps to mobilize yourself.
Question #2: When do you want to complete this task to experience the maximum benefits?
Select a realistic date. Now envision successfully finishing the task within the optimal time frame. How does it feel? You've given yourself a sense of how taking the initiative provides a more spacious way to enjoy your time.
Question #3: What first step can you accomplish in a single session?
Build on your positive incentive by envisioning yourself succeeding at each individual stage of the project. Break your task into workable "next steps" for yourself. If your small step seems too large, break it down even more! Comfort helps you maintain your momentum. Envision a coach by your side, patiently talking you through. If all else fails, enlist the help of a friend to gently encourage you. This can evolve into a reciprocal support team.
Question #4: How can you support yourself through careful scheduling?
Make the work process easier by integrating each portion into your daily schedule. Mark the completion date on your calendar. Working backwards from there, enter each important step. This helps protect you from overburdening yourself with multiple commitments. Don't forget to intersperse the completion of your small steps with rewards! In fact, list each task and its reward together in your schedule.
Question #5: How can you smooth the path ahead?
Check in with anyone whose cooperation you need to coordinate your activities. If you need to modify plans to accommodate other priorities, it's easiest during the early stages.
Each compassionate question helps direct your focus to your power, your satisfaction and your ability to plan and follow through. Any time you balk at stepping into an activity you need to engage in, asking yourself these questions can help you regain mastery of your life and your time.
What is your next step in implementing this strategy to make the most of your time?
About the Author Coach Paula Eder, Ph.D., The Time Finder Expert, has 35 years of success helping individuals and small businesses align time with values. For free Time Templates + Time Tips, visit Finding TimeEnjoy our blog! TheTimeFinder
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