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We are all procrastinators by
nature. I’m the first to admit that I wait until the last minute
to do things…whether it’s Christmas shopping or meeting a work
deadline.
Why do we put off things such as
decisions, projects, or even simple tasks? Procrastination can
be traced to three major causes. We put of things that:
1. Unpleasant.
2. Difficult.
3. Involve tough decisions.
Yet, often times these things are
important to us. To manage time is to manage and execute around
priorities. By managing our priorities we do things that
contribute to our success. This principle applies not only to
our work, but our personal lives as well.
The first question to manage your
procrastination is to determine what is important to you. At
work, your priorities may be to:
Satisfy your customers with quality
products and services.
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Manage relationships with your boss,
coworkers and clients.
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Meet your project deadlines or
monthly sales goals.
At home, your priorities may be to:
Manage relationships with your
parents, spouse, and/or children.
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Keep your house organized, clean and
in good-working condition.
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Save money for special events such
as birthdays, vacations or holidays.
The second question, most difficult
to answer is “What do I NEED to do right now that will
make a positive contribution to my priorities?” However, so many
times instead we answer the question “What do I WANT to
do right now?”
That means instead of working on
that report due tomorrow, you straighten your desk; instead of
making customer calls, you work on your emails; or instead of
resolving conflict with a coworker, you avoid any contact or
communication with him/her. At home that means instead of
playing games with your children, you bring work home; instead
of tackling those “honey-dos”, you watch TV; or instead of
managing your budget, you splurge on a new outfit or gadget for
yourself.
To tackle your habit of
procrastination, let me share with you a few simple, but
powerful strategies.
1. Stop justifying it! Admit it and
take action to just do it!
2. Do the tough stuff first when you are the most alert or
focused.
3. Break up large, complex project into smaller, more manageable
steps.
4. Don’t be a perfectionist. Budget a reasonable amount of time
and energy on something. Accept the results or situation and
move on.
5. Reward yourself when you complete a project…take a break, get
a cup of coffee, or do an enjoyable task.
Well, that’s probably enough for you
to work on this month. So what are you waiting for? Get to work
on those priorities…to manage your time and your life!
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