Why do I procrastinate? How can I stop?

Procrastination is common. In fact, many of my clients arrived with their email inbox overflowing and their desks piled high (literally and figuratively!). 

In my experience, leaders that do not keep their focus aligned with their goals are more likely to get lost in work that can be easily delegated, or in tasks that are irrelevant. I would also say that emotional overflow, such as stress or tiredness, as well as not trusting our teams are also common reasons why procrastination takes over!

So, how can you stop procrastinating❓

💡 Manage your stress!

I often find that stress and emotional overflow can lead to procrastination, so, start or end your day with something that helps you unwind… 

Some of my clients choose to go for a walk, run, swim, or cycle, others opt for having a chat with someone they trust, and for me, writing out my goals and ‘to do’ list for the next day helps me to manage any stress that has built up that day, and helps ensure I start the next morning feeling focused and motivated! Whatever works for you! 

💡 Check your goals every day! 

This might sound like overkill, but if you’re not aligned with your goals, or are not focusing on them regularly, they become easy to forget and no longer motivate you. 😅

Write them up where you will see them every day. Read them each morning. Reflect on them. Am I on track? What do I need to do today to help me reach my goals? 

Setting goals is not enough! Regular focus is essential for goal achievement! 

💡 Trust your team!

If you’re leading a team, make sure you are delegating tasks and building trust in your team to ensure you are not micro-managing or obsessing over what they’re doing. Let them work IN the business, whilst you work ON it! 

I hope this has been helpful for you!

Do you have any other procrastination prevention tips❓