5 ways to stop procrastinating about important things in life
March 20, 2019
Always have a long to-do-list but never seem to get anything done?
You might even be reading this article to avoid carrying out a task! Learn how to stop delaying or postponing tasks and power through with these five easy tips.
1. Break the task down
When you’re feeling overwhelmed by a task you’re more likely to procrastinate instead of getting things done. Breaking the ask down into smaller, achievable tasks gives you a clear plan for action plus a greater sense of accomplishment.
For example, if you’re procrastinating about sorting your super, a first step might be opening all your super statements and filing them, or calling up to update your mobile number or email address.
2. Make your goals public
Let your friends hold you accountable by letting them know your intentions. Planning on losing five kilos? It’s hard to go out for ice-cream when everyone knows your goal. Tell all your friends, colleagues and family about your projects, and then you’ll be bound to try harder so you can impress them when they want updates.
3. Try the 2 minute rule
Keep your to-do list shorter from the start by living by the two-minute-rule. Basically, if something takes less than two minutes, do it then and there rather than return for it. For example, rather than just opening a bill, pay it then and there so it’s done and out of mind.
4. Don’t over complicate things
It’s easy to make excuses, but if you keep waiting for the “perfect time” to do something it might not ever come. Don’t let yourself get caught up in negative scenarios or “what ifs?”, instead stop making excuses, deal with the situation at hand and get your task done.
5. Eliminate enablers
Whether it’s scrolling through social media or catching up on Netflix, we all have our “go-to” when we’re supposed to be doing other things. Make a conscious decision to step away from these and instead focus your time and energy on the task at hand. You’ll feel less guilty plus have more time, be more efficient and have a greater sense of accomplishment.
Been procrastinating about your super?
We know super can seem daunting, but we’ve got plenty of experts that can help. You can get advice about your TelstraSuper account over the phone at no additional cost – it’s part of your membership. Plus our experts use plain English and can make super simple for you. Call us on 1300 033 166 Monday – Friday between 8.30am – 5.30pm (Melbourne time).