We’ve all done it – put off a task that’s unpleasant or a bit of a drag. But if it’s getting to the point where you’re feeling stressed or worried, or you’re holding up progress, then it’s time to do something about it!

Sometimes procrastination can be a sign that you need to take a breather, and recharge and refresh yourself before accomplishing the task tomorrow; but sometimes it’s just down to laziness. There are many tasks that just have to be done, whether it’s started now or put off until a later date.

However, you’ll be happy to hear that anyone can increase their productivity resulting in less stress and more accomplishments. Here are some tips on how:

1. Write down the goal, challenge and steps
Writing the task down and specific steps that will lead to completing the task can really help. For example, the goal could be to save time and improve efficiency, with the task being “Convert all of my client contacts and notes into the new CRM software system and learn how to navigate its tools”. Then the steps could include “Learn the best way to use the CRM software for this task”, and “Import client data” or “Instruct office assistant to enter the data from business cards”. By having specific goals in front of you you’ll feel more motivated and able to tackle the task.

2. Pinpoint your emotions and let them go
Procrastination is the act of an emotional reaction, so think about what’s really stopping you from tackling the task and whether it leads to an emotion, such as sadness, anger or frustration. A lot of people don’t understand that emotion is just a type of energy, which can easily be released.So if you’re feeling upset, watch a sad movie and have a good cry (yes, this is good for you, really!). If you’re feeling angry, try doing something active like some star jumps, or yell really loud to get it out. By purposely letting these emotions out you’ll release trapped energy, and instantly feel better.

3. Get rid of those “self-sabotaging” thoughts
With a dreaded task, it’s so easy to think “I’ll never be able to do all of this.” But this is what drowns out your motivation. Just simply try turning it around and thinking about what you will gain from accomplishing this task – it could mean gaining new skill, having more time or result in a happy customer.

4. Consider the roadblocks and plan ways to deal with them
People often procrastinate because of the challenges and trickier parts of the task that are going to appear along the way. Challenges could also be other urgent projects popping up, and you would need to plan how you would complete these projects whilst still having the time and motivation to move forward with the big task at hand.For any roadblock that could pop up on the way, have a tactic ready so that you stick to your original plan.

5. Commit to completing it
So by this point you should have visualised the task, and figured out and dealt with what’s making you procrastinate. You will have also made the task more doable to tackle by creating a step-by-step plan, breaking the task down into smaller, more achievable steps. Now you have to commit to the plan and get it done! One of the major benefits my clients experience with me, is that they are held accountable to do what they say they will. When you know something is a priority to improve your business, committing yourself to completing the steps to reach the goal is vital. If you don’t have a business coach, then you need to give yourself a kick up the backside to get it done.

6. Resist the urges!
Even after going through these steps, you might still meet unexpected challenges in the form of bad moods or lack of motivation. Be resistant, remind yourself of the how the end result will benefit you and remember that you’ll feel great once it’s finished!

By accomplishing your important tasks instead of avoiding them, you’ll have a simpler work life and feel more positive.

Every fortnight we have free workshops relating to differing business topics to help you achieve success. Click here to view upcoming events.