5 Steps for Overcoming Procrastination Now

You've heard it said that "Successful People Do the Things Unsuccessful People Don't Want to Do." There's a great deal of truth in that statement and it demonstrates the value of accomplishing goals by overcoming procrastination. It's important to first understand why you are procrastinating and then take steps to overcome those tendencies. There are 5 important steps to take, as follows:

1. Admit it. It's easy to underestimate the extent to which you are procrastinating. A Time Mastery Profile may help you identify how much of an issue this is for you. It will help you assess your strengths and development needs in 12 areas of time management.


2. Understand the consequences. Remember that panicked feeling when you think you might miss an important deadline and you're rushing like crazy to get it done? It's a terrible feeling. One key consequence of procrastination is the feeling of panic and extreme stress it causes. You know you're not doing as good a job as you could and the stress is a real killer.


3. 
   Recognize the benefits. You've probably also had the feeling that once you accomplished something you had been putting off, you realized that it really wasn't so hard after all. It may not have taken as long as you thought it would or have been as difficult as you anticipated. Remember this the next time you are feeling the burden of doing something you don't want to do. Once you decide to do it, it really may not be that difficult.


4. Make Yourself Accountable. One good way to overcome procrastination is to solicit help from other people. Tell them you will get something done by a certain date and time, then know they are going to expect it from you. You can also participate in a Time Management Class where you must set goals to overcome procrastination and report back on your progress.


5. Reward Yourself. It's important to feel good about accomplishing something difficult. Don't forget to reward yourself or to celebrate in some way. This will reinforce the power of overcoming procrastination. Each time you reinforce your success you are moving closer to developing a habit that can serve you for a lifetime.

Summary Procrastination can really sabotage the accomplishment of any goal you set. Don't put off accomplishing your most important priorities. Follow the steps outlined above and the results you gain will be well worth the effort.