4 Hacks for Overcoming Procrastination and Building your Productivity without Wearing Yourself Out

Procrastination - we've all been there. That nagging feeling of dread when faced with a task, causing us to put it off until the last minute. While procrastination is a common challenge, for many women it can have a particularly profound impact on our personal and professional lives. 

The roots of female procrastination often run deep, stemming from a complex mix of societal expectations, workplace dynamics, and internal struggles. As women, we frequently find ourselves juggling multiple responsibilities at home and at work, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and depleted. This fatigue can make it all too easy to delay or avoid tasks that don't feel immediately pressing.

Ask yourself, am I procrastinating or am I just too tired to face this now. If it is the latter please don't beat yourself up. Instead take a moment to think what you need (food, water, a walk, a cuddle, sleep) get some of that and then return to the task. 

The impacts of procrastination can be far-reaching. At work, it can undermine our productivity, damage our professional reputation, and limit our career advancement opportunities. Personally, it can lead to increased stress, guilt, and a diminished sense of self-worth and this can really impact our confidence. Procrastination can even become a form of self-sabotage, as we unconsciously hold ourselves back from reaching our full potential.

Are you one of those women who have a great big long to do list....or even several lists and who after working all day and getting loads done then only notice all the things they haven't done not the things they have? This is such an energy suck and really affects how you feel. A couple of things that helped me were 

1, having a much shorter realistic list (more on this below)

2, moving each completed task from your to do list to a to done list giving you a visual record of completion

It took me ages to realise that focusing on my lack of accomplishment (not real but perceived) meant I got more of it. We've all heard 'you get more of what you focus on and where focus goes, energy flows' Doh!

However, it's important to remember that procrastination is not always a failing on our part. Sometimes, it's a symptom of a larger issue such as a lack of information, resources, or support needed to complete a task effectively. By understanding the root causes of our procrastination, we can begin to address them in a constructive way.

When you feel the desire to postpone a task or piece of work, stop for a moment and ask yourself, what is behind your lack of desire to get this done. You can ask yourself .....What do I need personally, how do I feel about this task, can I delete it or delegate it, am I the best person for this task, do I have everything I need - such as information, or detail to complete the task?

Many of us high achieving (and sometimes perfectionist) women massively overestimate what we can do in a day. We write great long lists that frankly couldn't be achieved by even the best productivity ninja. If this is you buckle up and read on ....this how you set yourself up for success and this was a game changer for me

• At the start of the day look at your list and pick out only the things that must be done today

• Add a realistic time allocation for completion.

• Do these things, and only these things first. 

• When each is complete - celebrate your winning style 

• If you have any time or energy left at the end of the day, go back and review your list. 

• Repeat daily

The good news is that there are strategies we can employ to overcome procrastination and reclaim our time and energy. Here are four key steps:

1. First replenish. Be sure you enough internal resources for this task. Ask yourself if you have the time and energy for this piece of work. If not, go and fix that first. Nothing can function without fuel.

2. Prioritise and Plan: Break down tasks into smaller, more manageable steps, and create a realistic timeline to complete them. This can help reduce the overwhelming feeling that often leads to procrastination. Ask yourself, what is the first step I can take to make a start on this

3. Eliminate Distractions: Identify and minimise the things that derail your focus, whether it's social media, email, or household chores. Set aside dedicated time to work on your tasks without interruption. Even a short time of focused attention sends the message to your body that you can focus and get sh*t done. (google the Pomodoro method for more information) No one can maintain 100% for hours on end, you are a human, not a machine. Have a treat or celebration to reward yourself when it's done because humans are wired to repeat what we find rewarding. This could be a cup of tea, 10 minutes reading or flicking through a magazine, a chocolate hob nob or whatever feels nice to you 

4. Seek Accountability: Enlist the help of a trusted friend, colleague, family member, or professional coach to keep you on track. Having someone to check in with and provide encouragement can be a powerful motivator.

By implementing these strategies and addressing the underlying causes of our procrastination, we can start to regain a sense of control and empowerment in our lives. Coaching, in particular, can be an invaluable resource, providing a safe and supportive space to explore the deeply-rooted factors contributing to our procrastination habits.

With patience, self-compassion, and a willingness to make gradual changes, we can break the cycle of procrastination and unlock our full potential, both at work and in our personal lives. The journey may not be easy, but the rewards of greater productivity, reduced stress, and a renewed sense of confidence can be truly transformative.

If procrastination is a feature in your life and you want to reduce it I can help. Book a call and lets talk https://calendly.com/florerevita/enquiry