Is there something you know is important to do – for family, kids, chores, work, business… but you just keep putting it off?
When we have it hanging over our head it becomes a viscious cycle. We feel guilty, we doubt our abilities, feel bad, helpless, and then don’t do anything.
Let’s break that cycle now!Here are four things (that I know I really need to keep in mind) that can help us get going on those things:
1. Anticipation is (almost always) worse than reality!
This was true with the kids going off to college too. Not that it wasn’t hard and emotional, but the anticipation of it was always worse! The dread of something you don’t enjoy is often worse than actually doing it.
It seems like such an overwhelming chore. But once you actually get started, it’s typically pretty satisfying, and sometimes even enjoyable. Especially if you put on your favorite podcast or blast some tunes. I find using Airpods makes me surprisingly focused!
2. Eat that Frog!
Do it first. Sometimes the task is hard, and big and really no fun at all. But putting it off won’t make it any easier. That just keeps us from moving on and enjoying our day.
Try doing the hard thing ASAP, first thing in the morning. Then you’ll be able to enjoy the rest of your day without it hanging heavily over you.
We use up so much energy dealing with putting it off, feeling guilty, beating ourselves up… And, we use up precious brain space continually having to think about it, remember it, justify why it isn’t done…
It frees up our energy and our brain when we finally get to it!
3. PLAN A REWARD!
It doesn’t have to be big, expensive or unhealthy. It might be a call to a friend, a game online, a short break outside, just something to look forward to.
Try deciding ahead of time on a small reward for every work session. Then a bigger bonus reward when the task is completed.
It might sound hokey, but I like playing the online NYT Sudoku. I do the easy puzzle every morning. Then I tell myself I can do the medium puzzle after an hour of work, and the hard after something bigger. Yes, sometimes I don’t get to the last one. 🤷🏼♀️
4. JUST START!
Maybe you’re putting off something that is so big you don’t even know where to start.
You know the old saying, “How do you eat an elephant?” “One bite at a time!”
Just make progress. Maybe you only have it in you to make 2 calls, or work for 15 minutes. But that’s 2 calls & 15 minutes completed! Even if you can’t do it all, do something.
Then give yourself a pat on a back. You did good enough for today.
You might just find once you get going, you’re on a roll. The next thing you know you’re finished! That creates PRIDE in self!😁
What will you be accomplishing today using these tips? I’ve gotta get cleaning out rooms to be ready for a garage sale! Starting NOW!🤩
