Procrastination

Question of the day

How do you deal with the urge to procrastinate on important tasks?

Dealing with the urge to procrastinate on important tasks is a near-universal challenge. Whether it's putting off a work project, delaying household chores, or avoiding a difficult conversation, procrastination can lead to increased stress, missed deadlines, and feelings of guilt or inadequacy. It's a common hurdle that impacts productivity and overall well-being, making it a topic many people seek advice on.

Recognizing how widespread this issue is, we asked our community members to share their personal strategies for overcoming procrastination. We wanted to gather real-world tips and techniques that people find effective when motivation flags and distractions beckon. Understanding how others cope can provide new perspectives and practical solutions for anyone struggling to get started.

The responses revealed several key themes. Many find success using time-management techniques like timers and structured breaks, while others leverage technology through app blockers. Changing one's physical environment or adopting specific mindset shifts, such as visualizing a future self or focusing on the negative consequences of delay, were also popular strategies shared by the community.

Common Procrastination Experiences Shared by Our Community

Using timers and reward systems (like snacks or breaks) to structure work periods.
Changing physical location to a more motivating environment, like a public workspace.
Employing digital tools like app blockers to minimize online distractions.
Adopting specific mindset strategies, such as focusing on future consequences or embodying a desired future self.
Breaking down tasks or challenging oneself against the clock to initiate action.

Our community discussed

How Can Timers and Rewards Help Beat Procrastination?

Many community members find that structuring work time with timers and incorporating rewards can be a powerful antidote to procrastination. This technique breaks down daunting tasks into manageable intervals and provides immediate positive reinforcement, making it easier to start and maintain focus.

Lilly

7 months ago

I set a timer to do whatever needs to be done. Then i take a break to eat a snack. Then I go back to the task. And then I eat a snack. Using this method you want to get the task done because you get a snack after!⏱️❤️

315

Katerina

6 months ago

it may lead to a weight gain if done long term 😊 also depends on a snack, i know 😊 some carrots would be fine, but who wants carrots after an hour of spreadsheet work

112

Sabrina

6 months ago

i try to challenge myself to run against a timer

188

Nicole

5 months ago

I use a timer to start and reward with a break of doing something I would rather do.

243

Our community discussed

Does Changing Your Workspace Reduce Procrastination?

Sometimes, the environment itself can be a trigger for procrastination. Moving to a different location, particularly one where others are working productively, can create a sense of accountability and focus, helping to curb the impulse to delay tasks.

Vanessa

7 months ago

I go to a public location so that way I’m motivated to work since others around me are working as well.

295

Nicole

5 months ago

I’ve never had this come to as a thought! I’m going to have to try this!!

Our community discussed

What Digital Tools Can Help Manage Online Procrastination?

In today's digital age, online distractions are a major source of procrastination. Community members recommended specific apps and browser extensions designed to block or limit access to time-wasting websites and social media, thereby reclaiming focus for important tasks.

Shirley

7 months ago

For those that use app-blockers to stop scrolling, and other distractions, which ones do you use?

135

Jennifer

5 months ago

I use an app called Opal on my phone. It works well for me and has helped me reduce my screen time by about 50%. On my computer I use add ons for Firefox, like one that allows me to block distracting features of social media sites like YouTube. That also helps me procrastinate a lot less.

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Tomasz

8 months ago

I use an app called Lemio. It preventw me from mindlessly going to social media and if I really want to go it askes me for how long and then kicks me out.

218

Our community discussed

Using Mindset Tricks to Overcome the Urge to Procrastinate

Beyond practical tools and techniques, shifting one's perspective can be crucial in fighting procrastination. Strategies like focusing on the long-term consequences of delay or embodying an ideal future self can provide powerful internal motivation to act now.

Kacie

6 months ago

If I don’t complete now , it’ll only be more later on

254

Leonie

8 months ago

I‘ve created a detailed description of my future self that I want to become. Even gave her a name. Every time I’m procrastinating I’m asking myself „would she do it?“ and then I’m trying to become more like her

342

Unknown

5 months ago

Amazing, will try to experiment with this

Advice from our community

How to Tackle Procrastination Based on Real Experiences

Implement Timeboxing: Use a timer (like the Pomodoro Technique) to work in focused bursts, followed by short breaks. Rewarding yourself after work sessions can increase motivation.
Change Your Scenery: If you're stuck at home, try moving to a library, coffee shop, or co-working space. The presence of others working can create positive peer pressure.
Use Technology Wisely: Install app blockers (like Opal or browser extensions) to limit access to distracting websites and social media during work periods.
Adopt a Future-Oriented Mindset: Remind yourself of the negative consequences of delaying the task ("it'll only be more later") or visualize the productive person you aspire to be and act accordingly.