How To Beat Procrastination & Increase Productivity
Procrastination is a constant struggle for writers. It’s hard to get started and even harder to keep going.
But don’t you wish there was an easy way to beat procrastination? Well, there is. Here are the seven habits that will boost your productivity and help you beat those pesky writer’s block blues. Ready? Let’s go …
1) Set deadlines
The first step in beating procrastination is to define what you need to do and set a deadline for when you will complete it. It can be daily, weekly, or monthly depending on your writing habits and personal preference. Make sure your deadlines are realistic so that you feel safe from being overwhelmed by them; otherwise, it might backfire and cause more procrastination than necessary. MORE: How To Set Your Writing Goals (And Actually Achieve Them)
2) Start early, often, and small
There’s a reason why we tell you to start early, often, and small. That’s because procrastination is the enemy of productivity and if you’re not productive, your writing will suffer.
On the other hand, if you’re able to stay on top of what needs doing by taking care of it on time, then this helps keep your mind clear so that when it comes time for actual writing or editing work on your project(s), there won’t be any distractions weighing on your shoulders.
3) Record an affirmation
The next time you feel like procrastinating, record an affirmation to yourself. You can write it down, use a voice recorder for audio or a screen recorder for both video and audio, then replay that message when you’re feeling discouraged. You can even repeat the affirmation out loud if you have time and privacy.
The key here is to use positive words in a positive tone of voice when recording your affirmations, for example: “I am going to write today.” It’s also important not to say things like “I’m going” or “I do want” because those phrases imply doubt about whether or not you will follow through with your plans. MORE: 10 Powerful Affirmations For Writers & How To Use Them
4) Reward yourself for being productive
When you get down to work, reward yourself with a small treat. Go for a walk or take a break from your desk and do something else. Go shopping and buy yourself something nice–it doesn’t have to be expensive, but it should make you feel good when you use it. Plan everything so that when the time comes around again, nothing can stop you from getting started on that project or task.
5) Break it down and go step-by-step
Let’s say you have a big project to complete, like writing an essay or book. You start working on it and get distracted by something else–and another thing comes up. Before long, you’ve lost hours and are still far from finishing your work.
If this sounds familiar to you, here’s how to beat procrastination … Break down the task into smaller steps that are easier to handle in one sitting. Then set aside a specific amount of time each day (or week) dedicated to completing those smaller tasks until they add to the larger whole. This method works best if done consistently over time; otherwise, it can lead back into temptation when things get difficult or tedious!
6) Create a Youtube channel for yourself
“While we teach, we learn” was said by Seneca, a Roman philosopher. So why not give it a try yourself? Youtube is a great place to promote yourself, your writing, and your book. If you already have a Youtube channel or playlist, you can create videos using a youtube video maker and help people learn about your work and how you deal with procrastination. You can also share some things that inspire you and your favourite writing tips.
7) Avoid distractions at all costs
Avoiding distractions is the most important thing you can do to increase your writing productivity, and it’s also the most difficult. Distractions are everywhere:
- Your phone vibrates with a new text message.
- An email comes in with an urgent request from your boss or client.
- Social media beckons with updates from friends and family members.
But if you want to write more effectively. Turn off email notifications so they won’t interrupt your workflow every few minutes; instead, check them once per hour or so when there aren’t any other distractions (for example, when walking outside).
Last Points
The most important thing to remember is that you can beat procrastination and increase your writing productivity. You need to be willing to change how you work and think about how you use your time. Don’t hesitate if one doesn’t work out so well for whatever reason: try another one until something clicks.
Good Luck!
BIO: Chantelle Torres is a PR Outreach Specialist at VEED.IO. She is passionate about the arts and music. She spends her free time reading books, and watching movies.
