As a coach, one of the questions I encounter frequently is, “How do I break the cycle of procrastination?” It’s a common struggle, one that affects many individuals, including myself. In fact, studies show that approximately 20% of the American population grapples with procrastination. Today, I want to share with you three essential steps that helped me overcome this hurdle in my own life.
1. Making Different Decisions
Breaking free from procrastination starts with making different decisions. Notice, I didn’t just say “making decisions,” but “making different decisions.” It’s about altering our approach and habits. For instance, something as simple as calendaring events in advance can be transformative. Instead of waiting until the last minute, I started setting reminders well ahead of deadlines. This small change in decision-making helped me stay on track and avoid the procrastination trap.
2. Being Intentional
Being intentional is crucial in combating procrastination. Often, when we try to break long-standing habits, we believe it requires monumental shifts. However, it’s the small, consistent actions that truly drive change. Being intentional means understanding our responsibilities to others, whether it’s to our loved ones, our colleagues, or ourselves. It’s about showing up in a way that aligns with our values and goals. By focusing on these small, intentional actions, we pave the way for lasting change.
3. Taking Massive Action
Taking massive action doesn’t always mean making grand gestures. In the context of overcoming procrastination, it means consistently implementing the small changes we’ve discussed. Calendaring events, being intentional in our interactions, and showing up as the person we aspire to be—these are the steps that constitute massive action. It’s about committing to these actions consistently, day in and day out, that propels us out of the procrastination vortex.
Avoiding the Pitfalls
One of the biggest pitfalls to watch out for is getting trapped in our own heads. It’s easy to believe that changing behavior requires monumental shifts, but the reality is quite the opposite. True change stems from small shifts done consistently over time. So, instead of overthinking and getting bogged down by the enormity of the task, remember that it’s the cumulative effect of these small shifts that lead to significant change.
In conclusion, breaking the cycle of procrastination is not an insurmountable challenge. By making different decisions, being intentional in our actions, and taking consistent, massive action, we can escape the grip of procrastination and achieve our goals. It’s the small shifts, done consistently, that pave the way for lasting change. So, let’s embrace this journey of transformation, one intentional step at a time.
