Procrastination is an issue that can plague even the best employee. It is usually defined as putting something off for a later date, even when it may create more stress and anxiety or go against common sense. You might have trouble with procrastinating or see procrastination occurring on your team. Here are some tips to help reduce procrastination:
Nothing is Perfect
For some people, procrastination is a perfectionism issue. Try to discourage standards of perfection, for yourself and employees. You don’t want to allow sloppy work, but you also don’t want to hold anyone (including yourself) to an impossible standard.
Work In Small Steps
Trying to tackle entire projects in one sitting or without planned out steps can be overwhelming and will make it easier to procrastinate. Divide projects into small steps and work on them one at a time. If you find yourself getting distracted, work on a different project for awhile. This will help you to refocus and get things done.
Have Regular Check-Ins
This can be useful for you or for employees who struggle with procrastination. Check in to make sure goals are being met. Having to be accountable to someone else will help to decrease procrastination.
Don’t Give Yourself Too Much to Do
This is something you have to evaluate personally. If you can only handle so much in one day, then don’t cross that threshold. Feeling overwhelmed is a good way to start procrastinating. Keep your schedule to a level you can handle and try to be understanding if employees have to do the same.
Put Yourself in the Right Place
You might need a certain trigger to help you work effectively. Whether that’s turning on a specific type of music or having a snack, make sure you do it before you work. It will make your working process run a lot smoother. Be as lenient as you feel appropriate in letting your employees create the right place for them to work.
Share these tips with those you know who struggle with procrastination or use them yourself to get into better work habits.