PathtoSelfImprovement

Overcoming Procrastination

Getting Things Done

    We all hit moments when we ask ourselves, "What should I do next?"  We reach a point
of paralysis & procrastination due to confusion, over-analysis, or fear of doing it "wrong". 
We end up doing nothing until something outside of us forces us to act or we finally make
a decision.  Let's focus on how to take action & overcome moments of procrastination.
Here are some tips to help you get things done & move forward again.

1. Identify the exact outcome you want to achieve before taking action.
    Too often, we are not specific enough as to what we want to accomplish.  Make the end
result or outcome measurable or visible in a concrete way.  It could be completing a number
of sales calls, completing X number of pages of a report, or taking X number of boxes to
donate to a thrift store as you clean out the garage.  Knowing what your completed action
will look like when done helps define your outcome.

2. Make sure the actions you are taking will get the results you want.
    We can get caught up in busy work that is not productive.  Rearranging is not actually
cleaning out an area.  Organizing a list is not actually making calls.  Make your actions lead
you to an actual measurable outcome.

3. Have your actions produce at least some measurable results.
    This allows you some leeway from tip #2 with the emphasis on DOING SOMETHING
productive, no matter how small the step.  If you have to break down the task into small,
doable steps, then so be it.  A small step is better than no action at all.  Make sure the small
step does move you forward & is not just spinning your wheels.  Making 3 calls is better than
no calls.  Completing one page of a report is better than nothing being done on the report.
Be able to step back & see that something was accomplished.

4. Do the productive tasks you know you will complete.
    Find something that needs to be done, has a specific purpose in having it completed, & DO IT.
We can get overwhelmed with "what should I do first" thinking & what is the "right" thing to do.
Do something that you know will be productive.  Don't worry about making the "perfect" choice.

5. Don't worry about doing it "wrong".
    Fear of doing the task the wrong way can stop us from doing anything.  If you need advice on
how to proceed, get the advice now so you can take action.  Getting advice is an action step. 
Proceed with what you do know about the task & allow for learning while you do it.  You'll
find it was not as difficult as you thought & you'll be more clear about what questions to ask
once you get involved.   

    Doing is the key to overcoming procrastination.  We frequently out think ourselves & get
nothing done as a result.  Trust yourself, be clear what you want to accomplish, & let go of the fear
of not being perfect.  You'll do far better with getting things done by taking some action steps rather
than worrying about doing it.

Rodger Cota
www.pathtoselfimprovement.com
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