Procrastination is a common struggle that many of us experience, though for some, it almost feels like the spice of life. There’s a peculiar rush in the last-minute scramble, driven by the adrenaline of racing against the clock.
However, for many, procrastination is less about excitement and more about anxiety. Whether it’s the fear of executing a task perfectly or simply feeling overwhelmed by the enormity of a project, the mental barrier can feel insurmountable.
It’s important to note that procrastination isn’t inherently a crime; it’s part of the human experience. But when it starts to affect relationships and careers, that’s when we must pause and reflect: maybe it’s time to take control and improve.
This isn’t about suddenly becoming hyper-productive – it’s about making small adjustments to foster better habits and prevent procrastination from becoming a roadblock to your success.
THE THREE-TO-FIVE-MINUTE RULE
One of the biggest reasons we procrastinate is that tasks feel too big to tackle.
A simple but effective trick is the three-to-five-minute rule.
If a task takes only a few minutes – like replying to an email, making a quick phone call, or tidying up your workspace – just do it immediately.
These small wins build momentum, making it easier to tackle the bigger projects. After all, sending a quick email is far less painful than staring at it in your inbox for days.
THE DIGITAL REMINDER METHOD
To-do lists and reminder apps are great in theory, but let’s be honest – how often do we actually check them? Instead, try creating a private WhatsApp group where you’re the only member. Use it as a running list for tasks, ideas, and reminders.
Since most of us check messaging apps far more frequently than productivity apps, this little trick helps keep tasks top of mind rather than buried under a pile of forgotten notes.
THE TWO-MINUTE INITIATION STRATEGY
The hardest part of any task is getting started. The two-minute initiation strategy works by convincing yourself to commit to just two minutes of effort.
Whether it’s opening a document or jotting down a few ideas, the psychological barrier lowers significantly.
More often than not, once you start, you’ll keep going well beyond those initial two minutes. It’s a simple yet highly effective way to outsmart your own avoidance tendencies.
THE POMODORO TECHNIQUE: STRUCTURED WORK INTERVALS
The Pomodoro Technique is a classic for a reason: it works. This method involves working in focused 25-minute intervals, followed by a short break.
The key is making breaks actual breaks – stretch, take a walk, or grab a coffee instead of mindlessly scrolling through social media. Short, structured work sessions make large tasks feel more manageable and prevent burnout from long, unbroken work periods.
LEVERAGING EXTERNAL ACCOUNTABILITY
It’s easy to let yourself down, but it’s harder to let someone else down. That’s why external accountability is a great tool.
Tell a friend, colleague, or even post online about your commitment to completing a task. The knowledge that someone might check in on you adds just enough pressure to keep you on track. Few things are as motivating as avoiding the dreaded, “So… how’s that project coming along?” conversation.
PRIORITISING COMPLETION OVER PERFECTION
One of the biggest culprits of procrastination is perfectionism – the fear that something won’t be good enough. But in reality, done is always better than perfect but unfinished. Lower the bar, get something on paper, and refine it later. Most of the time, what feels imperfect to you is more than adequate to everyone else.
Ultimately, the key towards managing procrastination is to take action rather than overthink. And if all else fails, set a deadline and promise yourself a reward for finishing – it’s amazing what a little incentive can do.
Now, time to tackle that to-do list (or at least start with the easiest thing on it). – Wardi Wasil
