This year I’m trying something new. I’m starting my tax preparation on February 1st with a goal to have it ready for the accountant by February 16. I even put it on my calendar. Yes, I said February, not April. For the win!
I’m not very diligent about keeping my books, so it’s a game of catch up early each year. It’s really all about putting off those things that I just plain don’t want to do, that thing we call procrastination.
But you know what they say about the inevitability of taxes, so I really can’t put it off. And no one else is going to do this for me, so why would I put if off? Bonus – when I complete the task, I know it will feel so good.
Funny thing – as I set about to write this article, it sounded suspiciously familiar. That’s because I wrote one on procrastination about three years ago. Am I really still talking about my tendency to procrastinate? Does that mean I’m even procrastinating about my procrastination? Sheesh!
Sometimes, usually, it takes a reminder, or many reminders, to set a new habit or behavior. Today, this is a reminder of some of those ways to tame the procrastination beast. Maybe if I remind myself enough, this will be the year things turn around. And then again, maybe not (hello, humanness!).
Do the task immediately
The longer you think about something, the more reasons you invent to avoid doing them. Whether it’s researching a topic, making that dreaded phone call you have to make or preparing a business proposal, just do it and do it NOW! Do it before your brain starts getting in your way.
Don’t give in to distractions
Working from home, I have a ton of distractions from the laundry to playing with the cats, so this is an especially important one for me (and maybe you, too!). Try checking your email only two or three times a day at scheduled intervals so you have time to focus. Turn off notifications during your work day. Get everything you want, need or think you need before you start working so you can concentrate.
Make a list
This has always been an especially effective tool for me, and all the apps and other tools that are available to us make it easy. Or maybe you’re someone who prefers a hand written list. What ever works best for you, having a list and checking off items as you complete them helps you to remember and gives you a sense of accomplishment.
Start at the top
Yes, it’s easier to start with the easiest things and get them out of the way. Unfortunately, the longer you put off doing the bigger stuff, the more difficult it is to get started on it. And that same sense of accomplishment is even greater when you’ve completed the bigger stuff.
Set a series of smaller goals
Those big tasks can often feel overwhelming, and that’s why we put it off until we have no choice. Setting smaller, quickly achievable goals can help you avoid procrastinating in the first place. Break that big project in to smaller chunks, and then take a break before you go on to the next step. That is, of course, unless you’ve found flow, then just go with it.
Turn it off
At the end of the day, take a break from work until the next work day. Spend time recharging for the next day. And if you want to schedule in regular breaks from work during the day, that works too, as long as it’s scheduled. For instance, when I do my best work, I’m sure to schedule in an hour for lunch and a walk or sit outside.
Practice self-care
Self-care allows you to avoid burnout and work avoidance. For more information and ideas on self-care, read the article, “Go Ahead, Indulge Yourself.”
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