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New Year’s Resolution: Make This the Year You Stop Procrastinating

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It is inspiring to read about some of the amazing women in our community. These women get things done! The word “procrastination” must not be part of their vocabulary. Putting off until tomorrow what can or should be done today often holds many of us back from accomplishing our goals.

I remember in college I’d stall and delay writing term papers until the very last minute. Almost always, once that first paragraph was typed, the rest of the paper would flow easily. The crazy thing about that was all the unnecessary time and energy I spent feeling worried, anxious, guilty and frustrated about the project. The anticipation of doing the work was much worse than the actual doing of the work. This is true of many, many things; just getting started is the hardest part.

There are a variety of reasons we procrastinate, and we can be very creative in the ways we find to do it. To change this habit, you must explore your personal roadblocks to unpleasant tasks so you can begin to alter your behavior. Attitude makes such a difference in getting things done. Focusing on the future, such as what will be better after the task is completed, looking for the positive aspects of the job, and recognizing the greater unpleasantness of delaying the work, can help you forge ahead.

Beyond the psychological aspects of procrastination, here are some practical tips to help you move forward.

  • Break the project down into bite-sized, manageable pieces to reduce your feeling of being overwhelmed.
  • Instead of simply writing a to-do list, define a time and schedule it on your calendar for exactly when you will work on each item.
  • Commit to 20 minutes per day to focus on the project; sometimes you’ll find yourself choosing to stick with the job longer.
  • Move with speed; set a timer and see how much you can accomplish before it dings.
  • Give up perfectionism; good enough and done is better than perfectly not done.
  • Do the most unpleasant portion of the job first; get it over with and avoid the build-up of dread.
  • Create a pleasant work environment. Light a candle, play music, dance while you work, open the window to breathe fresh air.
  • Take time out to pet your cat, play with your dog, or take a walk around the block; then get back to work.
  • Get help, either someone to directly help you with the task or just a friend to keep you company while you do it.

You, too, can be a Woman of Influence! Even if you don’t receive magazine recognition, you can certainly be one within your own family, circle of friends and small corner of the world. Begin today by tackling a chore or project you’ve been trying to avoid. ■

Written by: Joanie Nicholas

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Organizing Coach Joanie Nicholas, owner of All Things Organized, is not an ordinary organizer. She approaches your home from a soulful place. For over 20 years, Joanie has led people across the metro area in creating lasting, positive changes to their space. Joanie brings professional guidance, enthusiasm, empathy and humor to her hands-on work with each client. Connect with her at OrganizeWithJoanie.com, or by phone at 913-390-3432. For regular tips and inspiration for your home projects, follow All Things Organized on Facebook and @ATOJoanie on Twitter.