Keep Procrastination from Deflating Content
Written by Kathryn Lang
Last week the focus was persistence with some suggestions for getting content moving. The discussion led to the question of what tips work for beating back procrastination (which can be one of the greatest hindrances in the life of a writer).
Procrastination and I go way back. Most of my younger life was spent perfecting the art of procrastination. Hopefully the lessons I have learned from many procrastination related stumbles will prove beneficial for all those that struggle with getting started or keeping the momentum going.
Although the ways to defeat procrastination are as numerous as the stars, the key lies in one simple step. Just do it. The only way I know to break the habit of procrastination is to start doing things right now – this instant – no matter how small. Action begets action and action forces procrastination to run for cover.
Practical Tips for Pushing Back Procrastination…
- • Invest in a timer. Do something for one hour (50 minutes plus 10 minutes to take a break). Choose one project and then set the timer to complete that project.
• Do it now. When the thought or idea comes to mind then act on it at that moment. Even if you only get a partial start on the project at least the project is under way. It means there is one less thing to do tomorrow.
• Do one more thing. Find one more piece of a project or step that you can take before you call it a day or just take a break. Pushing to complete one more task will help you to keep focus on the bigger picture.
• Speak your goals. Verbalizing the things that you want to accomplish gives them life. It can be one of the best ways to get things moving in the right direction.
• Ask for help. There is always someone who knows more about what you are experiencing than you know. Reach out to that person or persons. Be open to their advice and suggestions. Learn from their mistakes and triumphs.
• Seek support. Surround yourself with people that will cheer you on to the finish line but that will also challenge you to cross. Meet with your encouragers on a regular basis.
• Never walk past something that can be done right now. Just like action begets action, procrastination inflates from exposure. Soon it will fill the whole day. Take a moment to put that file away, pick up that pen from the floor or do that small task that is calling to be completed.
• Read a book, listen to a seminar, or take a class about motivation, organization, or attitudes to help you stay focused on your goal. Many of the writers have been where you are and want to help you break free by showing you their own path to freedom.
• Turn off the television – or at least limit yourself to a small amount per day. If the recent writer’s strike has taught my nothing else, it has taught me that I can survive without television.
Procrastination can be a powerful force, but action creates the energy that will force procrastination to find a new dwelling place.
Share your greatest tip for beating the procrastination bug.
Ready for More Profit with Content?
If you'd like to learn to create content that builds your business, simply enter your first name and email address below and click "Subscribe". You'll instantly receive your guide and we'll keep you up-to-date with what's happening at Contentrix, content marketing news and more.
About the Author
Visit Kathryn online: KathrynLang.com
Everybody says "Content is King", but what does that mean for you? 
Marya Miller says:
Whenever I find myself procrastinating, I’ve learned to realize it’s fear-based: A writing assignment that involves interviewing a difficult person, a phone call I don’t want to make, etc. Knowing that helps me deal with it on the spot (by applying some of the methods above.)
Reading this article, I was pleased to find that “speaking your goals” and “seeking support” were two tips that were new to me.
I’m going to try them! Thanks for the excellent tips.
Avoid Content Burnout : Contentrix – Content Marketing says:
[...] Put off finding ways to put things off – in other words, kill procrastination. The due dates will come, the deadline will arrive and time will continue to march forward. Start [...]