maximize motivation, minimize procrastination

Procrastination is our enemy as it is the thief of time. By procrastinating, we are letting time slip right before our very eyes and doing nothing about it. The popular saying that “it is better late than never” is somewhat untrue as it is best NOW than later. Time once lost is lost forever.

Here are five ways to help you stay motivated and do away with procrastination.

1. Avoid distractions – To be the most proficient, successful and happy at whatever it is you do in life, especially if you are producing intellectual products; you need to have a distraction-free environment. Anything that will make you lose focus is something that will potentially set you up for procrastination and destroy your motivation.

2. Make use of your ‘free’ time – Start projects immediately if you have any spare time. For clarity sake, to be productive at the end of the day, you should plan your day in such a way that it is timed and scheduled. Sometimes your plans can change or an activity on your to-do list in cancelled, so you can take up that project as a ‘Plan B’ during a spare time.

3. Just start– Getting that first push is very vital. Once you actually start something and get into the flow of it, you would be surprised how easy it is. Don’t think about starting something, just act! You can always tweak the project and make changes as you go along. Remove all distractions from your environment-

4. Eat well, rest and exercise– A healthy mind and body is less likely to procrastinate. You’ll feel better, you’ll be more upbeat and active, and more optimistic about accomplishing your goals sooner rather than later. If you have not gotten enough rest or tired, you will be less productive and more likely to procrastinate a task until the next day.

5. Stay Positive– Keep your thoughts positive, and recognize when you are entering a cycle of procrastination. The mind is where you overcome and win any battle or task first. With a good mindset, start by just getting into it and doing it one baby step at at time. Sit down, write down and break the tasks into smaller parts so that they are less daunting.