Whenever I’ve worked on ‘de-cluttering’ my living or work space, I’ve always found that it’s the unfinished project, whatever I’m procrastinating on, that takes up the most space.
Physically, it’s a constant reminder of something I tell myself I SHOULD be doing.
Mentally, it consumes my thoughts and diverts my attention from the present moment.
Emotionally, it weighs on my heart and dents confidence.
In this article I invite you to consider how procrastination, as a form of self-sabotage, manifests itself in the different areas of your life.
Understanding procrastination: why do we procrastinate?
Perhaps your physical environment and organizational ‘systems’ are getting in your way. For example:
~ My workspace is too cluttered
~ I’m too busy
Perhaps distracting or debilitating emotions or thoughts get in your way. For example:
~ I’m afraid – afraid of failure, afraid of success
~ I am overwhelmed
Perhaps your physical body and your level of well-being are getting in your way. For example:
~ I’m too tired
Perhaps your thoughts about the other people in your life are getting in your way. For example:
~ They may not like it
~ It won’t be as good as _____, so why bother?
Procrastination is a habit like any other. If you can figure out how you want to be and take an honest look at what forms of self-sabotage you typically use, you CAN offset your procrastination.
Overcoming Procrastination: What Kind of Procrastinator Are You?
Are you a Do-er or a Stew-er?
Maker
A “doer” will do anything to avoid the task at hand: dishes must be washed, the dog must be walked, mail must be sorted, bills must be paid, files must be organized, etc.
Do-er’s Action Plan
Set a timer for 15 minutes and tell yourself that as soon as it goes off you can do whatever you want, but until it goes off, you need to sit in that chair and work on the project in front of you.
- train yourself
- keep it short
- stay in your chair
stew
A “stew-er” will sit and “stew” over what you’re not doing. Your mind will be going round and round about different possibilities, you will be planning elaborate things for when you get down to work, you will be thinking of a future so far away that you will never catch up with yourself.
Stew-er’s Action Plan
Focus and calm your mind with meditation, affirmations, and mind-body work like breathing.
- clear your mind
- Ground your thoughts
- pause and breathe
Whether it’s a “doer” or a “stew,” when we can achieve our creative goals DESPITE having so many reasons to put them off, the rewards are even sweeter.
When I feel overwhelmed, I need to remember that all I have to do is this. A few things later and I’ve tackled quite a bit!
It’s important to consider the big picture of this “thing” you’re trying to do. There’s always the possibility that you don’t really want to do it or that you’re not meant to do it. If this is the case, other than that you know and are trying to tell him, so listen (just make sure it’s not fear or doubt in disguise).
Lastly, remember to celebrate what you HAVE accomplished, no matter how small. The more you focus on what you HAVE DONE, versus what you HAVE NOT DONE, the more confidence you will have and the more momentum you will build for what you are going to do next.