How To Avoid The Avoiding Habit

Procrastination can creep in and easily become a habit and a bad one at that. Once it does, it virtually cripples your capacity to function effectively and productively and can become a hard habit to kick out the door. However, with some honest 'take a good look at yourself' self-assessment and an organized and attainable plan of attack, it can be overcome with success.

Don't be too hard on yourself when you decide to take action to try and kick the procrastination habit. Chances are that it's so ingrained that you don't fully recognize all the ways you actually procrastinate. Start out by taking a larger or complicated task - then break it down into smaller parts - this will help you to accomplish what you at the moment think is the impossible - easier. It's important to bear in mind that the most difficult or complex tasks are just a series of smaller jobs.

Make a verbal commitment to someone else i.e. a friend or family member about improving your time management skills and your desire to avoid procrastinating. Allow others to become involved in your efforts by permitting them to review your progress. This can be very helpful in setting deadlines and evaluating your results can be an invaluable asset and is sure to create a commitment on your part to fulfill the expectations set for you.

Map out a plan to manage your time more effectively. When a deadline is coming up, make sure you schedule time each day to work on the project so it doesn't sneak up on you at the last minute. Learn to ask for help when you're feeling overwhelmed or overworked.

Reward yourself for good behavior and accomplished goals. Don't wait until you've accomplished the end goal, but reward yourself for your successes along the way. Make sure the reward is something you like to do i.e. treat yourself to the newest book by your favorite author and take the time to read it. Indulge in bubble baths and/or relaxing music.

If you're in the habit of working late, whether at your home business or out-job, make sure you develop a new habit of going home on time each day.

By making a commitment to avoid the 'avoiding habit', you'll soon be well on your way to finding more time and find yourself more relaxed and productive and less stressed into the process.