Sometimes, getting started on a task is the most difficult step of the process. Procrastinating on tasks will only make things worse, reduce the time you have to complete tasks, and increase stress. By knowing how to get started with tasks and dealing with the urge to procrastinate, you can complete tasks on time without stress, leaving you with more free time.
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Method 1 of 2: Reorder Tasks
Step 1. Understand your task
Reading and understanding the assignment is the first step to rethinking the assignment strategy. While it may sound simple, understanding the task will help you break down tasks and complete them effectively. In addition, understanding the task can be the first step to getting started and overcoming the urge to procrastinate.
- Read the assignment as soon as it is given, then ask any questions you may have.
- If you are unsure of your understanding, try rewriting the problem in your own words, or explaining the problem to someone else. If you are unable to write or rephrase the problem or have a lot of questions about it, you may need more information.
- You should at least have an idea of the assignment, understand the essence of the assignment, and know the writing and technical requirements of the assignment.
- Find keywords in the instructions to understand the assignment, such as "explain", "compare", "relate", or "prove".
- Pay attention to assignment readers, and write informative essays for readers.
Step 2. Set achievable targets
Most tasks may seem so overwhelming that you find them difficult to complete. These feelings will cause you to procrastinate on the task. To avoid this, try breaking the task down into a number of achievable targets to make the task feel lighter.ref>https://www.princeton.edu/mcgraw/library/for-students/avoiding-procrastination/
- Targets that are too large or unclear will be more difficult to achieve.
- For example, you can break your essay writing assignment into smaller tasks, namely doing preliminary research, writing an outline, creating an introduction, drafting the content of the assignment, writing a conclusion, and revising it. Each of these small tasks will be easier to do.
Step 3. Do the task from the most enjoyable part
Take a look back at the task, then know what steps to take to complete the task. Find the part of the task that interests you the most, then work on that part first. By doing the work from the section you like first, you will be more excited, instead of feeling like procrastinating.
- For example, you could start reading about certain topics covered in your essay before moving on to other topics.
- If your math assignment consists of several types of questions, try working on the part you like before moving on to the other.
- You might also want to try an easier/simple task so you can cross it off the list. Knowing that you've put in the effort may keep you motivated.
Step 4. Start working on the task for five minutes
Generally, the biggest challenge in overcoming laziness is getting to work. To get started, try setting a "get to work for five minutes" goal. Working for five minutes will help you get started on the first (and most difficult) steps of the task, build momentum, and see the task as easier than you think.
- Promise that you will meet the target by doing the task for five minutes.
- Once you start, you may feel like you don't want to stop. You can also pause and go back to work, realizing that by now, you've worked at least five minutes.
Step 5. Break down the time for the task
Viewing the task as a large unit will make you feel intimidated. The same is true when you look at the timing of a task rigidly. Therefore, try to break the task down into sections that feel easier to work with.
- Try to set aside as much time as you can afford, for example two hours on a Friday. If you don't have a lot of free time, try to do 20-30 minutes of tasks in between activities.
- You may be able to continue or postpone the task after the time limit you set aside is up.
- Know your writing speed, then match the time of the task to your writing speed.
Step 6. Start writing
Getting started with writing is generally the hardest part of the process, but your job won't be finished if you don't do it. Stop your activities, and stop thinking negative. Start doing the task right now.
Method 2 of 2: Changing the Focus
Step 1. Change the mood
A bad mood may make you want to laze around as an escape, but running away will only make your mood worse later on. Instead, reward yourself after completing a task.
- You may want to go for a walk after working on your assignment for a few minutes.
- Try visiting a site or reading a book you enjoy after writing for a while.
- You can also move your body before starting a task. Exercise will trigger endorphins, hormones that help improve mood and memory.
Step 2. Think positive
Laziness will arise if you focus on the difficulty of the task so that you ignore the task, procrastinate on doing it, and do what you love. It's a good idea to focus on the positive aspects when your task is done so that you feel more comfortable doing the task.
- Focus on feeling good after you've done a task, instead of cursing at it. When you're done, you don't have to think about errands and can enjoy the weekend guilt-free.
- Remembering a reward for yourself can also help you stay motivated while working on a task.
Step 3. Avoid the urge to procrastinate while working
Even if you have started working on your assignments, you can still feel lazy while working. Pay attention to how you work, and avoid procrastination in the following forms:
- Avoid constantly changing workspaces.
- Don't get too hung up on research.
- Avoid stopping work to snack.
Step 4. Make consequences if you slack off
The desire to procrastinate will focus your attention on short-term pleasures, as well as make you ignore the long-term consequences that you will face when procrastinating. Creating consequences for yourself can help you focus on the benefits of getting the job done.
- Every hour you spend lazing around should be replaced by a time limit for viewing.
- If you slack off too much, you may be able to stop eating your favorite snack for a while.
Step 5. Don't focus too much on perfection when you start working on a task
The pursuit of perfection will only make the task feel too heavy. Remember that your current goal is to start working on the task. You can still revise the task later after you start.
