Tips for Managing Procrastination

Compiled by Charles Morse, MA, LMHC

The tendency to put things off until later is only natural. When given the choice between doing something unpleasant now or later it makes sense to put it off until later. It just plain feels better that way. Inevitably there are consequences for putting things off, usually more unpleasant. We all put things off now and then; those who consider themselves "procrastinators" have gotten into the habit of putting things off more often than not. The following are some suggestions that can help you break the habit of procrastination. Remember, you'll have to work hard at changing old habits for three or four weeks before it feels more natural!

Get Organized!
- List and prioritize your work; pick one project to start with.
- Use a time management schedule to organize and spread out work.
Break down large projects into smaller pieces.
- Even when working under pressure, just focus on the next step.
Set Goals, "I will get _______done by (this date or time).
- The smaller and the more specific, the better.
- Make sure goals are reasonable; be realistic.
- Reward yourself for attaining your goals.
- Appreciate what you've accomplished.
Develop and/or use assertiveness skills.
- Exercise your willpower by resisting temptations.
- Just say no if your plate is too full.
- Delegate if possible.
If stuck, just start.
- Sounds easy and it is; don't worry about the quality of the work; you can always fix it later.
- You don't have to start at the beginning; jump right into the middle of things.
Know yourself and your situation; be honest and reasonable.
- Keep your perspective; know what your limits are.
- Avoid perfectionism; sure you could do better if you had more time, but usually you don't. It's all about balance.
- Expect the unexpected; things can and will go wrong.

So you've tried all these suggestions and you're still stuck! Let's take a step back and try to make whatever you're stuck on more meaningful. Re-evaluate; why are you even doing what you're stuck on? Write down what you stand to gain by completing the task and what you stand to lose by putting it off. If you really don't need to do it, forget it. You don't need the baggage. If you're convinced you've got to accomplish what you're stuck on, write down an intention statement (a goal), with a reward. Tell everyone you're stuck and you need their help. Show them your intention statement and ask for their support. No one said it would be easy!

Maintained by webmaster@wpi.edu
Last modified: June 01, 2007 10:49:08