Do you know what procrastination triggers cause you to put things off? Sometimes, procrastination can seem like an overwhelming habit that’s hard to break. After all, it’s so easy to put off the things we don’t want to do! But if we take a closer look at why we’re procrastinating in the first place, it might be easier to tackle our tasks head-on.
Let’s look at the procrastination triggers that might be causing you to put things off.
The Task Is Boring
Procrastination can be a difficult habit to break, and it’s easy to put off tasks that we find monotonous or uninteresting. Consider why it may be unenjoyable if you find yourself stalling on something.
Finding ways to make the task more exciting or rewarding can help you break through procrastination and finish the job. This could mean breaking it down into smaller steps, setting rewards for yourself as you complete each step, or looking for ways to make it more meaningful. With some effort, even the most boring tasks can become more enjoyable – and you’ll be well on your way to completing them!
The Task Is Difficult
A common procrastination trigger is the feeling that a task is too difficult. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and put off getting started on it, but with some preparation, you can make tackling complex tasks much more manageable.
Break down the task into smaller steps and set achievable goals for yourself along the way. This will help you stay focused and motivated as you work towards your larger goal. Also, feel free to reach out for help if you need it – having someone else with knowledge in the area can help provide clarity and support.
The Task Is Frustrating
When something is frustrating, it can feel like the odds are stacked against you and make it hard to stay motivated. In this case, taking a step back and looking at the task from a different angle is essential.
Can you break down the task or modify it in some way? Can someone else help you with parts of it? Reframing the task allows you to gain perspective and progress despite your frustration.
It’s also important to take some time for yourself so you don’t feel like it’s all just a big chore. Set aside some time during the day to do something that brings you joy or helps you destress – this could include taking a walk in the park, catching up with a friend, or even sitting down to watch your favorite show. This will help you feel more refreshed and energized for tackling any complex tasks that come your way.
The Task Is Ambiguous or Unstructured
Ambiguous or unstructured tasks can be particularly tricky to tackle, as it’s often difficult to know where and how to begin. In this case, it’s important to break down the task into smaller parts and prioritize segments that need your attention first.
Once you have an idea of what needs to be done, don’t hesitate to ask for help from those who have more expertise or have successfully completed similar tasks.
In addition, setting deadlines for yourself can keep you on track with your task and focus your efforts better. When establishing these goals, be realistic and don’t get too overwhelmed by the magnitude of the project – instead, break it down into smaller chunks so that it’s easier to stay on top of them and make progress.
Overall, it’s vital to stay motivated when tackling any task that may seem overwhelming or ambiguous. With creativity and resilience, you can find the energy and resources you need to succeed – even if it means creating a plan B! Just remember to take some time for yourself between work sessions so you don’t burn yourself out.
The Task Lacks Personal Meaning For You
When the task doesn’t have a deeper personal meaning for you, it can be hard to focus and stay motivated. To avoid procrastination in this situation, think about how completing the task will benefit you in the long run.
Think of something that matters to you – like getting closer to your career goals or achieving a particular milestone – and keep that in the forefront of your mind as you complete the task. It can also help to break down large or intimidating tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks and set realistic goals. Make sure to reward yourself, too – a little incentive goes a long way!
The Task Lacks Intrinsic Reward For You
Procrastination can quickly take over when it feels like the task has no reward for you. To combat this type of procrastination trigger, try to find an intrinsic reward in the task. That could mean focusing on the satisfaction of completing a task or how much you’ll learn from doing it.
Find something that excites you about the task and hold onto that thought as you work. It’s also essential to make sure the job is manageable and realistic; if it feels too overwhelming, you might need to break it down into smaller pieces or have a plan for tackling it.
Knowing these underlying causes of procrastination can help us better understand why we struggle with specific tasks and how to tackle them best. With a bit of insight, you can move past your procrastination triggers and make progress on the task at hand!
I Am Here To Help
I would love to speak with you to determine if I can help you accomplish your goals. If you need guidance on your career, I am here to help. If you find yourself in a situation where you need career advice or support and want to talk about planning for your future, reach out to me, Rachel Schneider, at Career Find, for a free Intro Call.