Happiful Hack
5
PROACTIVE SOLUTIONS
How to overcome
Procrastination
We all do it – avoid a tricky task and put off the inevitable. But how much of our time and effort is wasted in doing so? It’s time to stop making excuses, and learn to get stuff done! Writing | Juliet Landau-Pope
I
s there a vital task at home or at work you’re avoiding? Whether it’s delaying a dental check-up or ignoring paperwork, we’re all prone to procrastinate at times. And while comedians often joke about it – Ellen DeGeneres says: “Procrastinate now, don’t put it off!” – in reality, it’s no laughing matter. Sometimes the costs are financial; missing a deadline to submit your tax return or pay a parking penalty can lead to hefty fines. More often the price you pay for prevaricating is emotional, due to guilt, shame and frustration. If you struggle with procrastination, you’ll know that it’s both a source and a consequence of stress and anxiety.
42 • happiful • June 2018
WHERE ARE YOU ‘STUCK’?
As a declutter coach and study consultant, I help adults and teenagers to boost motivation and productivity, at home, at work and while studying. Broadly speaking, I witness two procrastinating tendencies. Which is most familiar to you? • Not leaving the starting block: postponing an important project indefinitely, or leaving it to the very last moment. • Getting stuck midway: launching into an activity, but losing momentum and perhaps abandoning the endeavour altogether.
WHAT’S YOUR EXCUSE?
Excuses can be understood as stories that we construct in difficult situations to validate actions (or inaction). But don’t let the term “excuse” make you defensive. When you notice that you’re procrastinating, resist temptation to berate yourself. Let go of selfjudgement, and instead focus on challenging any underlying assumptions. By reframing your story, it’s possible to not only shift perspectives but habits, too. Here are five of the most common excuses that might resonate with you, and some tips to help you kick procrastination to the curb.