Is procrastination a big problem for you? Do you find yourself constantly putting off tasks ‘until later’ and then never getting them done at all? If so, you are certainly not alone, as procrastination is a huge problem for many people. Do you know how to stop procrastination?
One effective way to stop procrastination is to look at how much it is actually costing you. For example, if you put off paying your bills or doing your taxes, you are hit by heavy charges or fines if they’re late. Something like this is obvious, but there are many other ways our procrastination is costing us that we may not actually be aware of- and I have been guilty of many of these myself.
Keep putting off taking those library books back? The cost can be surprisingly high in overdue fines. Keep putting off starting an exercise regime or healthy eating plan? The cost of being overweight and eating a poor diet can be low self esteem and poor health, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and high cholesterol or blood pressure.
Putting off dealing with those unpleasant work tasks or completing that project? This could cost you promotion as you may be overlooked in favor of a colleague who gets things done. It could also rob you of your leisure time or time you could be spending with your family, as you may need to work late to catch up.
Put off tidying your desk and this will cost you valuable time later when you can’t find that item or piece of paper you desperately need.
Put off doing those household repairs and they can actually cost more and require more fixing by the time you do come to do them.
I used to put off going to the garage to get my car fixed when I knew there was a problem. It seemed such a chore to take time off work, juggle appointments and drive there, but when I finally did take it one time I was advised that the problem could have been quite dangerous if left any longer. I guess your life could be the ultimate cost!
Think of all the things you are currently putting off, and take a few minutes to write down what they are costing, or could potentially cost you.
So now we know what procrastination is costing us, we can tackle it with greater resolve. One good method is to take those costs and turn them into rewards; try giving yourself a reward for the completion of each task on your list. For example, if you are putting off clearing a room, promise that you will take yourself out to a show you want to see once you have done it. If you are putting off eating healthier and exercising, promise yourself that you will go shopping and choose a new outfit once you have dropped a dress size.
Whenever you feel tempted by procrastination in the future, just take a few moments to think what it might be costing you, this is a very effective solution to stop procrastination. Cheaper Than Therapy: How to Keep Life’s Small Problems from Becoming Big Ones
