Sustainable Practices for Environmental Leaders
Hang on a Minute! Series
How to Expose the Silent Time Thief
I think it is safe to say that everyone procrastinates on something; however, when it becomes more of a habit than a one-off, it is time to look at it more closely. Procrastination at work can result in decreased productivity, strained relationships with colleagues and potentially a stalled career progression. Over time, it can lead to a lack of self-confidence as well as to burnout, as you struggle to catch up and manage the mounting pressure of unfinished tasks. Procrastination takes its toll beyond the workplace, as well. The guilt and anxiety associated with putting off important tasks can lead to emotional distress and a self-perpetuating loop, where the fear of starting or not completing tasks to one’s own standards leads to further procrastination. If you find yourself struggling with procrastination, you could ask yourself, “What am I afraid of?”
Be honest with yourself—is it fear of failure, perfectionism or even success? Follow this by asking, “What am I avoiding?” Is it the discomfort of the task itself or the emotions it invokes? Another question is, “What is the worst that could happen if I start this task and how likely is it?” Answers to each question bring you closer to doing a reality check as well as making you more self-aware. Then, you can start putting a plan together. Starting with a single, manageable action is less daunting than doing a large task and as you succeed in each small one, you build confidence and productivity.
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