Tips To Get Motivated and Overcome Procrastination

Procrastination is a complicated behavior that affects all people
to some degree. Some experience only small problems with
procrastination while with others, it is a major source of anxiety
and stress. Lack of motivation and procrastination is related to
time management. Procrastinators often fail to complete tasks
even though they know what the task is and the time they
have to do it.

Why do people procrastinate? Often a difficult task is avoided in
favor of the less difficult. Tasks that take longer amounts of time
are less desirable than those that can be completed quickly.
People sometimes procrastinate due to fear of failure. No one
wants to be embarrassed by a lack of knowledge or skills when
beginning a new task. Overcoming the fear of failure and
developing good work habits will do wonders for those who tend to
procrastinate.

The first step in overcoming procrastination is to recognize what
psychological issues cause you to procrastinate in the first place.
Self-defeating issues such as anxiety, fear, poor time management
skills, indecisiveness, difficulty concentrating, and perfectionism
can be major contributors to a lack of motivation. It's important
to clarify your goals and then work to achieve them.

If you do not know how to manage your time efficiently, there are
classes and literature available to help you learn. In order to
change, you first have to accept and forgive yourself for your
shortcomings. Do not expect to change overnight, expect to
backslide on occasion and forgive yourself when this happens.
Give yourself adequate credit for tasks you do accomplish in a
timely manner.

If you have a friend or coworker who seems to be highly organized
and efficient, ask for suggestions as to how you can do the same.
Reward yourself for small steps taken towards your goals and be
realistic in your expectations. As with any type of behavioral
change, overcoming procrastination will not happen instantly.
Change your work or study habits to minimize distractions and
promote wise management of your time.

Be disciplined in your approach by setting a realistic goal and
sticking to it. Setting priorities is critical in learning to manage
your time in the most efficient manner. Do not dwell on setbacks
or mistakes. Focus instead on success and soon enough you will
stop dwelling on failure and instead come to expect the best from
yourself.

Motivation is the key to achieving success at work and at home.
Motivation comes from within. Coming to grips with personal issues
is the first step in realizing why you procrastinate and then taking
steps to change. If you focus on self-discipline and proper time
management, you will be able to change those habits that led you
to be a procrastinator in the first place.

You can get motivated and stay motivated by implementing a few
changes and observing a few personal rules. Observing and copying
those who seem to always be a step ahead is also an excellent tool
in overcoming procrastination.

Realizing that procrastination is a self-imposed condition is an
important step in changing those bad habits into a lifelong formula
for success. Make your plan, follow it carefully, and forgive yourself
for imperfections. You will soon transform yourself from a chronic
procrastinator into a highly motivated, disciplined individual.