Procrastination, like all other habits, is not easy to overcome. This doesn’t mean it’s impossible, but a rather difficult process that requires the individual to have the will to address it. After all, learning how to overcome procrastination without putting it into practice is as effective as not doing anything.

So how exactly do you beat this habit? Here are a few practical ways to do this:

Manage your mood throughout the day

Procrastination is influenced by your emotions, and not a lack of self-control. So it’s important to do the little things that keep you in a good mood. Get enough sleep, eat regularly, and take breaks between tasks as they often keep one feeling positive and in a light mood throughout the day. When you are in a good mood, you’ll find that you tend to procrastinate a little or not even at all.

Create to-do lists in order of priority

A good way to overcome procrastination is by creating a daily to-do list that helps you get the most crucial jobs done first. By arranging tasks according to their priority, you can work on the most significant ones when you’re still energised and motivated, then work on the lesser and easier tasks afterward.

It’s also important to remind yourself that dealing with the heavyweight tasks upfront is the only way to avoid an even heavier workload.

As Piers Steel, author of The Procrastination Equation said, “We are willing to pursue any vile task as long as it allows us to avoid something worse.”

Break down tasks into smaller bits

Tasks often seem overwhelming, so it’s easier to accomplish them when broken down into less scary bits. You can break them down in dashes according to time or units. In a time-based dash, you can set as little as one minute aside to work on a task. Keep repeating them till you gradually complete the tasks.

Make deals

Make a deal with a friend or someone you trust to keep you focused. Establish consequences for failing to complete tasks like handing over your money or cherished items. It is often the last resort, so make sure the consequences are scary enough to motivate you to get the job done. 

Remember, rewards and punishments are effective in building good behavior. So give yourself a treat when you accomplish tasks as well!