Procrastination Isn’t the Real Obstacle to Getting Things Done

Procrastination is something we all experience. Trouble is, it’s something that can quickly become a habit.  And it’s a habit that will derail your business success. People who are successful are people who have learned to tame that particular monster.

Procrastination is the process of trying to avoid a task by doing something else. For example, instead of setting up your WordPress website or creating your new product, you might decide to clean your home, go grocery shopping, and take a walk around your neighborhood. All of these are good activities. But when you use them so you can avoid building your business, it’s a form of procrastination.

But procrastination isn’t usually the real issue. Often, it’s a symptom of a deeper problem like a mindset issue. You might be avoiding a business task because you lack confidence. For example, you might procrastinate on writing the sales copy for your new product because you worry that you’re not a good writer.

You could also be procrastinating because you’re overwhelmed and not sure what to do next. Instead of installing WordPress and getting your first blog post up, you might waste time on social media or spend hours debating on what fonts you should use on your website.

Procrastination can also mask itself as helping others. For example, maybe you spend your nights helping your kids with their homework or you’re on several committees for various organizations. While it’s certainly important to be there for others, you have to make room in your life for your business. If you try to squish it in ‘whenever’, you’ll find plenty of ways to avoid it.

Often, it can be helpful to learn more about mindset issues by buying an e-book on the topic or scheduling a session with a business coach you know and trust. When you understand more about procrastination and why you do it, you’ll be better equipped to tackle it. Then you can break through this resistance you’re experiencing and get on the road to creating the business of your dreams.

1. It Gets Easier
2. Start it Today
3. Reward Yourself
4. Turn Your Back on Excuses
5. Practice Time-Chunking
6. Plan Your Week
7. Start the Task Even if You’re Planning to Procrastinate

Procrastination is no friend to those who run their own businesses. No one ever succeeded through procrastination. So, make the resolve you are no longer going to be one of those who fall by the wayside. Find out your reasons, throw away guilt or excuses, and start moving forward today.