The Art of Productive Procrastination: Get Things Done While Avoiding the Dreaded Tasks

Mark Twain once said, “The best way to get something done is to begin by doing something else.” If that’s not the battle cry of productive procrastination, I don’t know what is.

We’ve all been there – your to-do list is as long as a CVS receipt, and you can’t bring yourself to tackle that one nagging task. So, what’s the solution? Productive procrastination!

Productive procrastination is the art of postponing the dreaded tasks by diving into something else that’s still worthwhile. But let’s be clear: this isn’t an excuse to binge-watch your favorite show. Productive procrastination is a clever strategy that helps you get things done while avoiding the things you really don’t want to do.

Let’s break it down:

Step 1: List Your Tasks

First things first – grab a pen and paper (or open a doc on your phone). Write down everything you need to do. This helps you see the big picture and gives you a clearer sense of your workload. Sometimes, just acknowledging the chaos can be oddly satisfying.

Step 2: Prioritize Like a Pro

Now that your list is ready, it’s time to prioritize. Which tasks are you most likely to procrastinate on? Is it that big presentation you’re avoiding, or is it something a little less stressful, like organizing your sock drawer? Figure out which tasks have the biggest emotional barrier for you, and let’s deal with them next.

Step 3: Embrace Selective Procrastination

When you feel the familiar tug of procrastination pulling you away from your tasks, don’t let it drag you under. Instead of completely giving in, try working on another task that’s still productive. It’s like cheating on your main task with another, more appealing one. But hey, it’s all fair game in the world of productivity.

Step 4: Set Your Own Deadlines

Deadlines aren’t just for the boss to keep you in check – they can be your secret weapon too. Set self-imposed deadlines to maintain your momentum. It’s like saying, “I bet I can finish this before the microwave beeps.” Giving yourself mini challenges makes even the smallest tasks feel like a race to the finish line.

Step 5: Reward Yourself

You did it! You tackled some tasks (even if not the ones you planned to), and you deserve a reward. Whether it’s a candy bar, a nap, or a quick episode of your favorite series, treat yourself for your efforts. After all, productive procrastination is still about achieving something – and that calls for a little celebration.

Bottom Line

Productive procrastination isn’t about avoiding your responsibilities; it’s about being strategic with your time. By working on tasks that are both enjoyable and productive, you get things done while avoiding the things you’d rather not face. So the next time you find yourself procrastinating, don’t stress – embrace the art of productive procrastination. It’s a win-win!