It's that chaotic time of year and just thinking about all the catch up I need to do can stress me out. Ever feel like this? Seriously, between finishing up year-end work initiatives, social gatherings/events, the holidays, writing projects, my book proposal, it can all get a little overwhelming.
Thinking about work, there have been times for me when I never thought I would ever catch up with employee relations notes. To elaborate further, employee relations is simply described as an issue in the workplace related to an employee, whether it is just that employee, between several employees, or even a more serious complaint made against another employee/management or the company.
When people ask me what do I do in my HR role, I typically respond that I manage every aspect of HR for the facility I support, which includes hiring, firing, employee relations, projects, training, coaching/counseling, having those difficult conversations, communicating tough messages, being a business partner and everything else in between. By far, the most rewarding aspect of my role is working with all levels of employees to management to teach and coach them how to work through workplace issues, as well as move past their own personal and professional challenges.
Getting back to procrastination, and how this relates to my recent update of closing out employee relations notes. On any given day, there can be several ongoing employee relations issues, projects, meetings, and everyday type of tasks, which can leave me figuring out, how am I going to get it all done? Eventually, it all gets done, but it's that worrying of having pending issues to close out, which can sometimes lead to just not knowing how to get started. Therefore, let's shift our focus on what we can control.
Here's what you can do when you feel procrastination is trying to get the best of you.
5 Strategies to Conquer Procrastination:
1- Prioritize and set a realistic time limit for tasks to be completed relatively in the near future. Think in terms of that day, that week, next week, and that month. Planning from the deadline date (whether real or self-imposed) and working backwards from that date, may allow you to stay better on course.
2- You may have heard this before, but it's worth saying it again. Tackle those dreaded/least favorite tasks first. You will feel more focused, accomplished and that heavy burden suddenly lifted once you're done.
3- Ask for assistance or even delegate it if you can. Ask early on. I've learned the hard way about not asking for help early on and then it just becomes even more overwhelming. By the way, asking for assistance is not a sign of weakness! It's a sign of accountability -- very desirable trait in the workplace.
4- Over thinking the task is your own worst enemy. When it's not clear cut, then collaborate with others (e.g., boss, friends, family) to get their perspective. Most of the time, it's not nearly as awful as we make it out to seem. I'll admit I'm definitely guilty of over thinking how involved a task is going to be, which only causes more procrastination! Ugh -- Who needs that?
5- Figure out what you believe is your obstacle(s) and/or lack of resources to the task. Brainstorm on how to work through these obstacles to come up with proposed solutions. Then as I mentioned before, ask for assistance and collaborate with others on a plan and perspective.
Still not sure how to get started? Then begin today with de-cluttering and organizing yourself. It will allow you think clearer and be less distracted. Trust me you will feel a shift in energy and motivation just from this one task with your problem solving/creativity rapidly flowing shortly thereafter.
Perhaps begin to examine your thoughts, self-limiting beliefs, excuses, and environment for clues. Then work on a plan to eliminate these closed doors to opportunities and happiness -- all which is keeping you from becoming your best self and sharing your talents with the world.
All in all, it's about releasing all barriers to success and happiness while creating an opening in your life for more positive opportunities and abundance. When you procrastinate you are holding yourself back, so prepare yourself for what's to come! Namaste!
Would love to hear how you conquer procrastination! And if you're still struggling with procrastination, then tell us how. Acknowledge it, then take action!
So be sure to share your thoughts below in the comments and/or on the C&R Self blog! If this article resonated with you, then like it, share it, and/or comment below.
Originally posted June 2012 on Courageous & Remarkable Self blog
Join the C&R Self Movement.
For more by Sarina Tomel, click here.
Sarina is currently working on her first book, Courageous & Remarkable Self, A Practice for Stepping into Your Greatness!