Tip # 6 – Learn your limits
Stress is probably one of the biggest factors in chronic procrastination. This can be result of taking on too much, or miscalculating the time involved in completing a task or project. BEFORE you say yes to taking on any new project or task, look at your current schedule, consider the time realistically necessary to do the task, and sleep on it before you decide to get involved. Don’t get overwhelmed by pressure from outside sources – saying “no” is better than taking on more than you can reasonably handle.
As an event organizer, I’ve been in the position of having a key committee member drop out during the most crucial time in the project because they put off their tasks to the last minute and then decided they’ve taken on too much. It’s devastating for the planning team and for the event. So before you say yes, get a complete understanding of the job at hand, then create a task list and timeline, get help if you need it and get cracking! There’s no room for procrastination when you’re an integral part in pulling off an extraordinary event.
Tip #7 – Get a checkup
Do you suffer from chronic procrastination? Do you have family, friends, or co-workers who are affected by your inability to stay on schedule or keep your commitments? If so, you may need to speak to a professional about an underlying health issue that may exist, such as depression.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Procrastination is something I fight regularly. I’ve had to deal with the consequences of watching too many West Wing reruns instead of meeting my deadline, but sometimes it just happens; three episodes later, and I’m in panic mode because the afternoon is gone and my grand plans for a productive day of writing has disappeared into thin air. My best advice is to continue to fight the good fight, try some of the tips provided, remember the consequences of a job left to the last minute, and decide for yourself if giving in to procrastination is really worth it in the long run.
Next – Effective Communication, Part 1
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