That is right. We will tackle this monster today. Nah, let’s just do it tomorrow. Wait, what? Isn’t this an article on dealing with procrastination. Yes, it is but I don’t feel like dealing with it today. Yes, amigos and hombres, this is what we run into every time, we try and do something important and valuable.
Personally, I am a sophisticated Procrastinator. Yes, not like you lowly procrastinators. When I have something to do, I don’t fire up my favorite video game. No, I am better than than. I meditate, work out, listen to motivational videos, even go for a walk to get the blood flowing. Yes, I do all this in preparation of the task at hand but the task at hand, well that one, I do procrastinate on.
You see, procrastiantion is the subtle art of convincing yourself that folding laundry, reorganizing your spice rack, or watching yet another “How to Be Productive” YouTube video is the secret ingredient to crushing that project you’ve been avoiding. It’s not just a bad habit—it’s practically a lifestyle for some of us.o how do we deal with this cunning foe that whispers, “Not today, maybe tomorrow”?
Step 1: Call It Out
First things first—acknowledge the beast. Procrastination thrives on denial. Tell yourself, “Yes, I am procrastinating,” and embrace the moment. Once you see it for what it is, you take away some of its power.
Procrastination is like that friend who convinces you to stay out late even though you have a 7 a.m. meeting the next day. Charming, but ultimately destructive. So name it, shame it, and move on.
Step 2: The Two-Minute Trick
You don’t have to slay the procrastination dragon in one heroic move. Start small—ridiculously small. Commit to doing just two minutes of the task. That’s it.
Writing a report? Write the first sentence. Cleaning your room? Pick up a single sock. Often, the hardest part is starting, and once you begin, you might find yourself slipping into a flow state.
Step 3: Break It Down Like a Pro
A giant, looming task can feel like trying to eat an entire cake in one sitting—overwhelming and slightly nauseating. Instead, slice it into smaller, bite-sized pieces.
Example: Instead of “Finish my essay,” break it down into “Write the intro,” “Find three sources,” or “Format the bibliography.” Each step feels achievable, and crossing them off your list is oh-so-satisfying.
Step 4: Trick Yourself (Yes, Really)
Here’s a sneaky one: tell yourself you’re not actually doing the task, just preparing for it. This works wonders for tasks that feel monumental.
Say you have to write an email. Tell yourself, “I’m not writing it. I’m just opening my email app.” Then, “I’m not sending it. I’m just drafting it.” Before you know it, boom—it’s done.
step 5: Reward Yourself Shamelessly
Procrastination offers instant gratification, which is why it’s so tempting. To fight back, promise yourself a reward for completing the task.
“No Netflix until I finish the first draft.”
“No snacks until I clean this room.”
Your brain loves rewards. Make them count, and you’ll create a positive association with productivity.
Step 6: Forgive Yourself
Newsflash: You’re human. Even with all the hacks and tricks in the world, procrastination will occasionally win. And guess what? That’s okay.
The goal isn’t to be perfect. It’s to make progress. So if you slip up, don’t beat yourself up. Dust yourself off and try again tomorrow.
The Bottom line
Procrastination is a worthy adversary, but with a few clever strategies (and maybe some self-bribery), you can turn it from a paralyzing monster into a manageable pet.
And hey, if you’re reading this article to procrastinate on something else… well, at least you’re preparing, right? Now go tackle that task. Or, you know, think about tackling it after one more cup of coffee.