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So you’ve got a flexible time schedule and from time to time, you’re allowed to work from home? If you’re lucky enough to be in this position, you’ll know that the best thing about being able to work from home is that you can get so much done.
There’s no colleague to interrupt you with menial and unimportant tasks and you’re not in an environment where there’s a constant stream of buzzing sounds that will distract you. The advantages of this arrangement are endless.
The downside though, is that you could end up being bitten by the procrastination bug. And while we often pride ourselves for being good at it (we call ourselves queens or masters and pretend it’s an art form) it eventually leads to stressful situations, missed opportunities and limits us from reaching our full potential.
Simple tasks like cleaning, organising, replying to emails, or leisurely activities like watching TV, chatting, cooking become the excuse we need to either not work or put off what really needs to be done.
Eventually, either the work never gets accomplished or it is done in panic mode under stress and duress. We are then left with a feeling of regret or inadequacy from a mediocre job.
To end the cycle, two things need to happen: planning and doing. The planning element is an easy task for procrastinators, but the plans lack detail or steps to actually achieve their goals.
Here are a few tips on how to avoid letting procrastination take over your life:
1. Create a work-specific environment
If you have an extra room, turn it into an office. If not, clear a space reserved solely for working. Make sure the space is far away from distractions such as TVs, phones, books, and sunny spots that keep calling your name. Turn off notifications on your phone.
There are even apps that block your own access to websites like Cold Turkey, SelfControl and FocalFilter.
2. Routine is key
Although morning coffees and breakfast can be more languid and leisurely, try to establish a set routine to follow every day. Sometimes getting that workout in first thing in the morning kick starts your day and gets you ready to tackle your to-do list.
3. Make a to-do list
And be realistic. It’s much harder to set deadlines and goals when time feels less constraining. According to Forbes’ 5 best to-do list tips, you should rank your items based on priority and complete the important and difficult ones first. Divide it into small parts if it is a big project.
Create strict time controls, known as time-boxing, which assigns an exact amount of time to complete a task. If your time runs out, move on to the next task. Set time frames for each task as opposed to just general tasks, i.e. sign up for September blog course vs. learn how to blog.
Waitbutwhy.com – a blog on beating procrastination suggests putting down a non-refundable deposit for lessons or a membership for a class or club you want to join.
4. Create self-determined deadline
Planning a photo exhibition? Book a space for it now. Procrastinators often thrive off of stress so create real deadlines to ensure you get things done. If your goal is to create a blog post per week, announce the arrival of that post on your social media pages.
READ MORE: Is your personality getting you fired?
5. Reward yourself when you accomplish major tasks and take breaks
Stick to timed breaks though or else these could go on and on!
6. Break the monotony
Every so often, get out and work in public spaces. It helps to be surrounded by other people also busy working; coffee shops and libraries are great places to work. Schedule meetings to get you out and about and refreshed when you get back home.
7. Support systems are always helpful.
Tell your friends or family about your goals in order to make yourself accountable. Have patience and be gentle on yourself. Take small steps every day to achieve your goals and consider the consequences a year from now from not having taken those small steps.
It won’t happen overnight, but it will only happen if you make slow and steady progress regularly.
READ MORE: How to start freelancing: A beginner’s guide
