DAY 5: GET A GRIP ON PROCRASTINATION

You don’t have to stop it. Or get a complicated plan to overcome it. Just do it right.

If you procrastinate, there’s nothing wrong with you. Most of it's healthy. You’re spacing things out, doing things you feel like first and saving what you don’t like doing to later. What’s wrong with that? If procrastination doesn’t interfere with getting stuff done eventually, then enjoy it. 

But … if you’re putting off important work that would make a difference - or putting off taking care of yourself, it’s time to get a grip.

 Here’s why you keep procrastinating: you make it so rewarding. 

 Here’s why you keep procrastinating: you make it so rewarding.

You repeat what you find rewarding right? For example, when you avoid writing by doing something pleasant (like tidy up, make labels, make another cup of tea) you’re double-dipping into the Rewards Jar with both positive and negative reinforcement. It’s getting stamped in. Here's how to stop.

1. Pay attention. Notice when you’re procrastinating. What are you doing? Try to figure out why you don’t want to do it. In other words, get super aware.  

2. When you begin to procrastinate, stop the rewards. Stop doing something rewarding like napping or making labels. Make procrastination a pure experience. Do nothing, like a time out. Just sit there.   

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If you’ve done #1 and #2, you’ve started to break up your reward system. Now follow the advice you read everywhere: 

3. Break down your project into small pieces and set small digestible goals.

4. Set up a reward system after you finish a small piece. 

5. In severe cases, isolate yourself. The software freedom.com will turn off your internet connection. New apps can help you focus. Watch for my Get a Grip Commitment Devices post. Go work in your local coffee shop. You’ll be surrounded by scads of ex-procrastinators.