Do you have those days that you just can't seem to get through your task list? Suddenly it's 5PM and you haven't really accomplished anything? You're problem might be (yes, you guessed it) procrastination. But, we can help. Following are a few ways you can change your thinking and behavior to help make the most of your time and maximize your efforts.
Be realistic. If you think you are going to rewrite your presentation, call all your pending contracts, program a few terminals, and send off a few letters before lunch, you will be too overwhelmed and probably won't even start because you just know you can't do it all in one day. Instead, pick a manageable amount of tasks for one day, and take them one at a time. Schedule the hardest ones or the ones you don't like to do first so you can get them out of the way.
Don't beat yourself up. If you don't get something accomplished, figure out why. Are you afraid of failing? Do you not believe in the project? Figure out what it is, see if you can fix it, and move on to the next task.
Pat your self on the back. When you finish a particularly daunting task, give yourself an atta boy- take a walk outside, buy a new office tool, give yourself something to look forward to.
Don't feel that you need to jump in with both feet. Take the time to organize your tasks, putting the most important ones first. You will save time if you do things in order.
Share the responsibilities. If you really have too much or your plate, ask for help or delegate. Some people refuse to delegate because they fear others will see them as weak or unable to handle the job. But, asking for help shows a level of maturity and more importantly, it makes sure the job gets done.
As we all know, ignoring a task does not make it go away. But with a little planning, prioritizing, delegating, and a dose of discipline, the job will get done.
