Procrastination is a complicated behavior that affects all
people to some degree. Some experience only small problems with
procrastination while with others, it is a major source of
anxiety and stress. Lack of motivation and procrastination is
related to time management. Procrastinators often fail to
complete tasks even though they know what the task is and the
time they have to do it.
Why do people procrastinate? Often a difficult task is avoided
in favor of the less difficult. Tasks that take longer amounts
of time are less desirable than those that can be completed
quickly. People sometimes procrastinate due to fear of failure.
No one wants to be embarrassed by a lack of knowledge or skills
when beginning a new task. Overcoming the fear of failure and
developing good work habits will do wonders for those who tend
to procrastinate.
The first step in overcoming procrastination is to recognize
what psychological issues cause you to procrastinate in the
first place. Self-defeating issues such as anxiety, fear, poor
time management skills, indecisiveness, difficulty
concentrating, and perfectionism can be major contributors to a
lack of motivation. It's important to clarify your goals and
then work to achieve them.
If you do not know how to manage your time efficiently, there
are classes and literature available to help you learn. In order
to change, you first have to accept and forgive yourself for
your shortcomings. Do not expect to change overnight, expect to
backslide on occasion and forgive yourself when this happens.
Give yourself adequate credit for tasks you do accomplish in a
timely manner.
If you have a friend or coworker who seems to be highly
organized and efficient, ask for suggestions as to how you can
do the same. Reward yourself for small steps taken towards your
goals and be realistic in your expectations. As with any type of
behavioral change, overcoming procrastination will not happen
instantly. Change your work or study habits to minimize
distractions and promote wise management of your time.
Be disciplined in your approach by setting a realistic goal and
sticking to it. Setting priorities is critical in learning to
manage your time in the most efficient manner. Do not dwell on
setbacks or mistakes. Focus instead on success and soon enough
you will stop dwelling on failure and instead come to expect the
best from yourself.
Motivation is the key to achieving success at work and at home.
Motivation comes from within. Coming to grips with personal
issues is the first step in realizing why you procrastinate and
then taking steps to change. If you focus on self-discipline and
proper time management, you will be able to change those habits
that led you to be a procrastinator in the first place.
You can get motivated and stay motivated by implementing a few
changes and observing a few personal rules. Observing and
copying those who seem to always be a step ahead is also an
excellent tool in overcoming procrastination.
Realizing that procrastination is a self-imposed condition is an
important step in changing those bad habits into a lifelong
formula for success. Make your plan, follow it carefully, and
forgive yourself for imperfections. You will soon transform
yourself from a chronic procrastinator into a highly motivated,
disciplined individual.
About the Author: Arina Nikitina is
the author of the goal setting tutorial "How to Set
and Achieve a Goal".
Click here to get 27 proven techniques, 9
worksheets, and step-by-step success plan
