We’ve all been there — you have a To Do list the size of a phone book and it feels like for every item you check off, there are three more waiting to take its place. Facing so much can leave many people feeling overwhelmed and ultimately paralyzed. That’s where procrastination can become a serious issue. Luckily, there are a few simple ways to stop putting things off and start getting things done.
Multitask Wisely — Most people will tell you multitasking doesn’t work and, to be fair, they’re right. Trying to tackle two items on your list at once will end up with pretty poor results. Instead, pair up a fairly mundane task like scheduling meetings, updating a spreadsheet or sorting through your receipts with a task that offers a bit of diversion without requiring too much attention such as catching up on the podcasts, movies or TV shows you’ve been meaning to watch.
Use Your Tools — Quite often people download tools meant to help them be more productive and then they never get around to using them. Check out your Internet history or scout out some new small business productivity app options that seem like they’ll be a good match. This can include everything from sorting out your personal time management issues to online inventory app packages that can improve productivity across your company as a whole.
Eat the Frog — Mark Twain once said “If it’s your job to eat a frog, it’s best to do it first thing in the morning. And if it’s your job to eat two frogs, it’s best to eat the biggest one first.” Since then, countless business books and articles have used that as a way to illustrate a simple point – whatever task you’re dreading most, do it FIRST. This will set you up for feeling more motivated and accomplished for the rest of the day.
Be Realistic — No doubt your habit of procrastination has left you with a glut of things you should have done by now. When working to create a list of things to get done today, stick to a reasonable number of tasks and make a list of things to do today, this week and this month. Having a realistic plan for when and how you’ll get things done will make you feel more organized and in control.
