Procrastinating is a part of work life. We all do it, whether we’re self employed or working full time, we find ourselves at one time or another putting off work that we need to do. So how do you stop yourself being up against the wall with all your deadlines because you felt like procrastinating? This article will discuss 5 ways you can focus your mind and get back to work when you just don’t feel like it.
1. Organise your work. It can be easy to procrastinate if you don’t have your work organised in such a way that you can see exactly how much you have left to do. Out of sight, out of mind. Always keep your work organised in a way that forces you to recognise it. This could be through the use of post-its, lists, or maybe you just want a huge sign above your computer with your deadlines written out. Whatever gives you the kick you need to realise just how much work you have to do, do it. Having your deadlines constantly in your field of view will force you to focus when you don’t feel like it.
2. Reward yourself for completing important tasks. This is a trick that many of us learn at University – at mine, we would have sweets after completing a chapter of a book we had to read, for example. After every important milestone is reached, reward yourself with something you want. This means withholding it from yourself until your work is finished, too. If you’re self employed and work at home, reward yourself with an episode of your favourite T.V. show. If you work in an office, have snacks ready or arrange your breaks so that you can take them after you complete your work. Doing this will give you something to look forward to and motivate you to complete the work so you can have the reward.
3. Think about what your boss would say if you didn’t get the work done in time. The easiest way to motivate yourself is to think about how much trouble you’ll be in if you don’t. Imagine the scenario; you procrastinate from your work, the deadline comes and it’s below quality or even not there. Your boss/client is obviously going to be upset about that. Imagine what they might say or do. Assuming your job is important to you, the fear factor alone should be enough to motivate you to start working.
4. Find ways to make the work fun. The main reason you’re procrastinating is because you don’t want to do the work, right? So find a way to make the work more attractive to you. If you can, listen to some music while you work that you can nod along to and enjoy while you work. Think of the reasons you do your job – do you normally enjoy your work? Remember how that feels and channel that feeling into the work you don’t want to do right now. If you can make the work you don’t want to do seem more fun or interesting, you’ll feel better about doing it and find the motivation to do it much quicker.
5. Think of the money. It’s so simple but work always comes down to money. In most situations, the reason you are working is so that you can earn money. Think about how much each hour or day is worth and think about the pay slip you’ll receive at the end of the month. Remind yourself of all the things you’ll be able to spend that money on, whether they’re necessities or luxuries. You can’t earn that money if you don’t do the work, so it is essential that you find the motivation to complete it. If necessary, add a note to your list/post-it/big sign with deadlines on reminding you of how much you will earn for this work at the end of the month. Try not to get too lost daydreaming about spending your money, though, or you’ll just find yourself procrastinating even more.
Procrastinating isn’t all bad and can sometimes be a useful tool for helping you to recharge and get back into your work, so don’t beat yourself up if you find yourself doing it from time to time. The important lesson is to make sure that you don’t make it a hobby. So if you feel like putting off work for a couple of hours? Go ahead, just remember that work will still be waiting for you later. As always, good luck!
