Are you great at putting tasks off because there are other more important things to do? Do you feel overwhelmed by projects that you want to begin, but dont? Maybe you are a perfectionist. Procrastination can stem from different obstacles, one of them being perfectionism. Perfectionism has no relation to getting something right or perfect. It is a refusal to let yourself move ahead, and a cycle that keeps us paralyzed and stuck in the details of the task at hand. Being a perfectionist doesnt mean we are seeking to be perfect, rather it is a pursuit to find the flaws in ourselves. This results in the feeling of whatever we try to accomplish, it will never be good enough. Perfectionism causes us to be reluctant to start a project because we feel we may not meet our own high standards. Then the excuses start to flow. In order to break through this cycle, we must take risks and let go of some of the control. Do away with the excuses such as, I cant because, Im too old, too tired, too broke . . . etc. When we seek to be perfect, we are using our excuses, which results in putting off our projects or tasks we want to complete. When we say that we cant do something, what we are really saying is that we dont want to do a task or project unless we are certain that we can do it perfect. Analyze your Procrastination:
1. List projects you have been putting off
2. List reasons or fears why you are putting them off.
3. List answers to; If I didnt have to do it perfect I would do or try . . . Lets take a risk and believe in ourselves that we can accomplish our projects. We are in charge of what we are thinking and believing. If we want our future projects to go differently from the results we have been receiving, we need to alter the patterns that we use. Begin this process by creating a new plan. New Plan:
1. Create a detailed image in your mind of the project you want to complete.
2. Write a detailed plan. Include goals with specific steps to be taken and dates.
3. Execute the plan. Having an accountability partner may help you stay on track.
4. As you execute your plan, allow yourself to make mistakes and enjoy the journey to your completed project. The only way you can lose is by not starting at all. Whatever we firmly believe and visualize in our minds, we can achieve! |
