The good news is, even perennial procrastinators who have already burned some bridges can redeem themselves, although doing so is a rigorous, multifaceted process that requires long-term dedication. According to the Counseling Services office at the University at Buffalo, State University of New York, the most effective regimen for recovering procrastinators involves:
- Acknowledging self-defeating tendencies, including fear of failure, perfectionism, and difficulty concentrating
- Identifying personal goals and priorities, strengths and weaknesses, and values, and keeping written records of this information
- Setting realistic goals by dividing large, overwhelming assignments into smaller, more manageable tasks
- Modifying your environment by minimizing noise, working at a desk (not in bed), maintaining an organized workspace, and having all the necessary resources and equipment on hand before work commences
Get ’Er Done
Unless you’re a naturally thin countess with no relatives or friends, you’re part of the same rat race as the rest of us—juggling professional duties and personal relationships with exercise and social activities. Given all that we have to balance on a daily basis, procrastination is bound to rear its ugly head in our lives on occasion. For the people who make a lifestyle of it, though, it can become a crippling burden that leaves financial hardship, broken relationships, and emotional duress in its wake. If you’re discovering that poor time management is your MO, rather than an occasional glitch in your routine, don’t underestimate the strain that will befall you as a result. Consult a psychologist who specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy and implement the steps above to begin reconditioning yourself—because getting help is one item on your to-do list that you definitely can’t put off until tomorrow.
