When your mind is always tuned into so many different things sometimes stepping away and not doing anything can help you focus.
The 3 things about procrastinating to know right now are
You Can Plan It
Accept that procrastination is part of the process. Your mind needs time away from the thing that you need to be doing so plan for procrastination up front. This means when you put together a timeline for your usual work day add in time for procrastination. So that if you feel tired or rushed you will take guilt free breaks and stops forcing things.
When you plan to put it in time to procrastinate you should know what your work schedule looks like right now.
You Can Time It
How time is managed and where to fit it ‘doing nothing’ into a schedule is different for everyone. So, it does mean that you need to figure out what works for you. You have to be intentional about how much time you take away from doing tasks. Can you take away a whole day, half a day or just a few hours?
If the mornings are your business time but you find that you’re too tired or that you can only get to where you need to go a little later than planned then do not feel bad about it. You have set aside time in the schedule for it. However, after the time runs out, do not be tempted to stretch it.
Remember that being tired, not feeling inspired or not having the transport money does not mean you should avoid getting back to work and finishing tasks. Take that time away from tasks but do get back on track as soon as possible.
You Must Trust the Process
Pay attention to what thought persists, what is coming up over and over again and refuses to be ignored. Let procrastinating serve you by giving that thought a serious thought. The priority should be to get to the bottom of what is pulling you away from your project.
If it means stepping away from it and changing some of your schedule then do it, trust the process and accept that clarity comes slowly. You are not overthinking things, you are not wasting time, and you are listening to your mind.
Remember that finishing isn’t about putting out whatever you can but, putting out the best that you can. If your mind is saying it is not ready or not good enough, listen to it. If you have the privilege of working on your own schedule and terms, then that time off will not change much.
It is not how you begin but how you continue and most important how you finish. This is a timeworn adage. Trust the process.
