Off Your Duff

Do you put off your work for later, only to find your deadlines looming? Welcome to the club you are one of the millions of people afflicted by the procrastination virus. Procrastination is the biggest reason for loss of productivity and late output. Though many say they work better under pressure, they would benefit greatly if they start their work ahead of time.

Most people, put off their work out of habit. It is hard to get into a pattern where starting your tasks in a timely fashion is a priority, especially if the consequences for being late are not all that important.

If you are one of these people, yet you desire to stop the cycle of procrastination, then you have come to the right place. Here are a few tips to help you overcome the natural tendency and become a more productive and reliable person.

1. Set schedules – It is very important that you have a list of activities to accomplish per day. This will help you realistically budget your time and resources. Many put off work because they feel there is an abundance of time left. A journal, organizer, or calendar of events will help you plan and schedule your task so that you can start them promptly and finish them on time.

2. Save the Vacation for Later – If you put of work, saying “I’ll play now and work later” you have it reversed. Do the work first, then reward yourself with some “play”. You will get much more accomplished.

3. Never Underestimate Your Tasks – Even if you know how much time a task will take. Allow for the unexpected

4. Don’t Allow Yourself to Get Comfortable Doing Nothing –  This will help you foster the notion that jobs accomplished now means more time for relaxation later. However, even if this is the case, do not forget to put ample time in for rest and to remove all thoughts of troubles before hitting the sack. The trick here, however, is not to overdo you rest. There is a difference between resting and idling. Always set the right amount of time for rest and stick to that schedule.