Time to turn over a new leaf, and stop putting thing off? Here are practical tips to help kids—and parents—overcome procrastination and become more proactive.
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FIGURE OUT WHAT MOTIVATES YOU. Maybe it’s challenge. Or could it be creative expression? Choice? Familiar routines? Flexibility? Reassurance? Fun? Incentives? Feelings of pride about progress? Or finding enjoyment in learning and accomplishments? The possibilities are endless! However, if something is personally relevant (that is, it connects meaningfully with your life, interests, or vision for the future), that relevance can be very motivating. Find relevance, connect to it, and use it to advantage.
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REDEFINE YOUR CONCEPT OF WHAT POSITIVE OUTCOMES LOOK LIKE. On p. 34 of BUST YOUR BUTS, I offer the following suggestion: You can learn to define your own success, and the path you want to take to get there. It may be by improving on something you can already do, or by progressing a little rather than a lot… Success means something different to everyone. It helps to try and be flexible, creative, and sensible.
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THINK CAREFULLY ABOUT WHEN AND WHY YOU PROCRASTINATE. There are many reasons for procrastination—which may occur occasionally or frequently. Regardless, there are ways to prevent, eliminate or manage it. (I invite you to check out my books!) However, the important thing is to get started! Become aware of what might be having an impact on your behavior, reflect upon it (because reflection can fuel creativity, productivity, self-confidence, and strategies), and resolve to take action to become more productive.
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CUT YOURSELF SOME SLACK. If you tend to procrastinate, and you feel overwhelmed or worried about it, try not to get too stressed. Be kind to yourself. Don’t compromise your need to do what matters most to you. Life gets busy and demanding. And, in the context of that, people often fail to recognize the importance of calming down, taking stock, and believing in themselves. It’s okay—indeed, it’s beneficial—to take time to relax, prioritize, and set a reasonable pace.
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SET ATTAINABLE GOALS. Goals provide an impetus for learning, and therefore can help people grow in new and exciting ways. When setting a goal, try to ensure that it’s specific, timely, and reachable. If not, you may be tempted to procrastinate. Be patient as you proceed, take things one step at a time, and make adjustments along the way if necessary. If you run into obstacles, don’t give up. Take pride in what you’ve achieved. Consider asking for help, and sharing the load by collaborating with others.
LAST WORDS
To recap, pay heed to what motivates you, maintain a realistic sense of success, be aware of when and why you procrastinate, have faith in your abilities, and establish meaningful goals. These tips will help you move forward, and you’ll be less likely to put things off! Adopt a “ready, set, go!” approach. Devise a framework for action, tap your strengths, and get started. Think of overcoming procrastination as a chance to learn, improve, and be productive—and then persevere!
