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Ah, procrastination. It’s an affliction that can strike even the best of us when we don’t really feel like doing what needs to be done.
It manifests in a whole host of ways.
Maybe you start doing other tasks instead of the one you should be doing. Perhaps you make a list of everything that needs to be done, then talk about that list rather than doing it.
Or maybe you simply check out and mindlessly scroll social media rather than getting stuck in and getting things done.
Yep, we all do it. But the big question is this: how do you overcome the urge to do anything other than the actual job at hand?
The wisdom of AI
Recently I asked ChatGPT to provide me with a brief on how to overcome procrastination, and the following is what it gave me:
Conquering procrastination – a kick up the backside approach
- Face the truth: procrastination – acknowledging the problem.
- Set clear goals – defining objectives with deadlines.
- Create a plan of action – outlining a systematic approach.
- Eliminate distractions – overcoming temptations and distractions.
- Use time management techniques – enhancing productivity with effective strategies.
- Visualise success and consequences – creating motivation through positive imagery.
- Seek accountability – sharing goals and building supportive relationships.
- Embrace discipline – developing a mindset of determination and action.
- Celebrate progress – recognising milestones and rewards.
- Learn from setbacks – bouncing back and adjusting the approach.
Then it summed up with this little nugget of wisdom:
“Remember, the most effective way to overcome procrastination is to take decisive action.
“Procrastination thrives in inaction, so deliver a resounding kick up the backside by implementing these strategies and start making progress towards your goals today. No more excuses, no more delays – just consistent action and a brighter future!”
Real life versus AI
The above is an educational approach. The advice and strategies ChatGPT proffered are well-documented and often referenced.
But sometimes we don’t need a formal explanation. We just need a good kick up the backside and a stern tone of voice.
Recently, I was on the receiving end of a much-needed kick up the backside after recounting my to-do list to my wife Maria.
Rather than listen and nod or offer me sympathy for the lengthy list of tasks that needed to be accomplished, she offered a slightly different approach in the form of advice I desperately needed. It went a little like this:
“For crying out loud, just get on with it. Just do it!”
Just do it
Sometimes the key to overcoming procrastination is that good kick up the backside.
It’s not always about determining the root cause, implementing fancy techniques, or devising elaborate strategies.
More often than not, overcoming procrastination is simply about getting in, getting moving, and getting the job done.
And occasionally we need someone to call us out if we’re procrastinating rather than taking action.
Sometimes we also need to be the friend, mentor or leader that provides that much-needed kick up the backside to others with the simple words: just get on with it.
So my advice? If you’re struggling with procrastination, this week skip the analysis and instead, just get moving.
And if you’re leading a team or seeking to be a true friend, maybe “just do it” are the words someone you know needs to hear.
Manos Findikakis is the CEO of Agents’Agency.
