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The original was posted on /r/getmotivated by /u/ArmOwn2778 on 2024-01-04 14:58:07+00:00.
Back in school and through my first year of uni, I had a habit of putting things off.
Studying or diving into projects was always a last-minute rush, fueled solely by impending deadlines. I convinced myself that I thrived under pressure, but truthfully, I only worked when the pressure mounted.
Procrastination slowly chipped away at my potential. I felt constant guilt, my confidence plummeted, and it left me utterly miserable.
But I refused to live that way any longer. I knew change was necessary. I delved deep into the reasons behind procrastination, delving into the psychological and scientific roots.
Then, armed with this knowledge, I experimented with various strategies.
Guess what? I've largely conquered that habit, and it's transformed my life.
And now, I want to share these life-changing strategies:
Understand why you procrastinate:
Procrastination isn't just about poor time management or sheer laziness. It's about emotions—linking negative feelings like fear or overwhelm to tasks, leading us to avoid them. Our brains are wired this way, but it's a hurdle in the modern world.
Name and Acknowledge Feelings:
When the urge to procrastinate strikes, find out why. Sometimes, simply identifying that fear or emotion can diminish its overwhelming nature.
Small Steps:
Break daunting tasks into manageable segments. It's easier to commence when the steps are clear. Instead of attempting an entire paper, start with the first 200 words.
Craft a Clear Plan:
Map out precise plans for when and where tasks will be tackled. Saying, "I will do (this task) at (this location) by (this time)" significantly enhances follow-through, backed by research.
Visualize Failure:
Odd as it may sound, imagining the disappointment of failing your goal can spur action, even on off days. Our aversion to failure is a potent motivator.
Remember, overcoming procrastination is a gradual process.
These strategies aren't quick fixes, but with dedication, they yield results.
P.S. Join this free newsletter to uncover more productivity secrets and conquer procrastination once and for all.