HOW TO STOP PROCRASTINATING

Q&A - How Can I Stop Procrastinating?
Daily Inspiration
By John H. Sklare, Ed.D, LifeScript Personal Coach
Published January 06, 2009

Q: Why is it bad to procrastinate? And how can I stop procrastinating?

-Ash F.

A: Hi Ash,

What great questions regarding the issue of procrastination. If you don’t mind, I think I’ll wait until next week to answer this one. I’m just kidding, of course, as I refuse to procrastinate answering your question any longer! I suggest we begin with a short definition. To procrastinate means to put off doing something unpleasant or burdensome until a later time, or to postpone habitually. The last three words in that definition (to postpone habitually) are the key words, Ash. You ask, why is procrastination bad and what can you do to prevent it?

The ultimate price you pay for procrastination is frustration and stagnation. The frustration and stagnation are the result of simply taking no action toward completing the goal or task in question. And, as is typically the case, these two culprits are often accompanied by their roommates called failure and disappointment. Failure and disappointment is a high price to pay for procrastination as they provide a lethal blow to your self-image and negatively impacts your sense of pride and accomplishment.

The remedy for procrastination is rather simple: Create a plan, and follow through with that plan. Most experts suggest you begin by taking the project at hand and breaking it down into smaller segments. Then set a date to begin working, and tackle the easiest segment first. I suggest you begin by working in small blocks of time, instead of trying to get too much done at once, and eliminate as many distractions as possible. For example, having the TV on is probably not a good idea for most people. If your project allows for outside help, get others involved as well. In short, the remedy for procrastination is ACTION! Stop thinking and start doing, and this problem simply goes away unless, of course, there is pathology involved. In that case, counseling is a must!

Wishing You Great Health,
Dr. John H. Sklare

MY THOUGHTS

got to go! i don't want to deal with frustration, stagnation, failure and disappointment. i've been putting off so many things the past few weeks. ciao!