Is your to-do list longer than a Kroger grocery receipt? If you’re nodding, welcome to the club—Procrastinators Anonymous! We will meet next week! 

Just kidding!

We all know the sinking feeling of workplace overwhelm. A never-ending to-do list, difficult clients, along with family obligations–it never ends. But, work doesn’t have to feel like a punishment day in and day out.

 Let’s explore why workplace overwhelm happens and how we can kick it to the curb.

Why Do We Procrastinate?

Welcome to Procrastination Nation—a magical place where tomorrow seems like the perfect day for productivity. But have you ever wondered why? Are we just inherently lazy or is there something deeper lurking beneath?

How Procrastination Leads to Overwhelm

Procrastination is the entry ticket to the reactive world—a dimension where you’re always on the defensive, always putting out fires. This is the opposite, of course, to a proactive approach, where you plan, you execute, and you get (almost) everything done.

The Why Behind Procrastination

Perfectionism: The Silent Killer

Procrastination often starts with the other “P word,” Perfectionism. Ever tell yourself, “I’ll start when I know I can do it perfectly?” Spoiler alert: Perfection doesn’t exist. The only “perfect” time is NOW.  You likely will not feel motivated or inspired until you are already in the act of writing, creating, or doing the work. 

The Wrong Environment

There may not be a perfect time or perfect place, but there are more ideal, conducive environments for achieving productivity. Comfortable temperatures, water and supplies within an arm’s reach, and good lighting are all great elements of a productive environment. While some people prefer to work at a desk, others don’t mind creating on the couch. Take a moment to really assess the spaces and places from which you work, and identify what helps and hinders your workflow.

Fear: The Ultimate Procrastination Tool

We fear not just failure but also the scary starting point. “What if I mess up?” is the anthem here. This is where the silent killer starts to move in–perfectionism. Your first draft might not be your favorite, but no one said you had to stop at one.

Blank page syndrome can scare you away from crafting that email, creating that presentation, or writing your next blog post. If you’re afraid of “messing up” or performing poorly, give yourself some extra time &/or multiple working sessions to really create what you know you are capable of producing. Rome wasn’t built in a day!

The Entrepreneurial Trap

Did you know procrastination is even more rampant among entrepreneurs? They’re always chasing the next big idea, often forgetting about the project in front of them. We often call that “Shiny Object Syndrome.”  Keep a running list of all the “big ideas” you want to chase after.   They’ll still be there once you’ve finished what you must get done today. 

Brain Overwhelm

Do you wake up and immediately check your email? Sometimes at 3:00 AM? Guilty as charged! Whether you’re checking your email, managing social media notifications, or catching up on missed text messages, our brains are bombarded from the moment we wake up, and the deluge of information doesn’t stop until our head hits the pillow at night. Consider what sources of information are overloading you each day, and start setting some boundaries and limit your access.

Decision Paralysis

Overwhelm turns your decision-making into a slo-mo horror film—you see the problem, but you can’t move. The best way to avoid this demon all together is to structure your day so that you’re making your most important decisions in the morning, or whatever time of day your brain power is at its peak.  

The Urgency Illusion

Have you heard the saying, “When everything is a priority, nothing is a priority”? Translation: everything does not need to be done right now. Not every task is a true emergency.  What creates this illusion in our mind? Mainly heightened emotions and our brain perceiving a pattern of being rushed. Remember, you are in control of your brain, not the other way around. Focus on setting deadlines, acting with intention, and pausing long enough to celebrate milestones and achievements (even the small ones). 

Busy ≠ Productive

We can’t stand when someone says, “I’m so busy.” Who isn’t busy?! Yet, it’s such an easy trap to get stuck in. Being “busy” can look like answering non-urgent emails while that big project gathers dust. Or cleaning out your junk drawer when you have a major deadline approaching swiftly. It’s a classic procrastination move. Check yourself throughout the day and week by asking yourself, “Is this task directly connected to my bigger goals or is it just an easy win?” 

Feeling stuck in the loop of procrastination and overwhelm? Break free and turn your work life around! Recognize, reset, and redefine your approach to productivity. Let’s create tailored strategies and support together. Take the first step now!

Solutions

How can we fight the 3-headed monster that is perfectionism, procrastination, and overwhelm in the workplace? Let’s take a look at our favorite strategies to battle this beast!

Know Your Enemy

Know thyself. We can be our own worst enemy without even fully realizing it. Are you procrastinating because you’re bored, scared, or both? Knowing is half the battle.  Get to the root cause to find a cure.  Once you’ve identified your enemy, you’ll be able to target the weaknesses and experience success! 

Constraints Are Your Friend

Deadlines aren’t just for clients. Setting deadlines and scheduling your work like you would a client’s work is one of the best ways to ensure you’re meeting your standards and accomplishing what you need to prioritize. Every morning, give yourself 15-20 minutes to acclimate and mentally center yourself for the day’s top priorities. 

Create Your Own Haven

Creating a space that suits you best is going to be your #1 tool for killing procrastination. For some people, that might look like setting up the home office in a space separate from the family kitchen. For others, it may be a favorite coffee shop at a corner table. Wherever you work best, find it and work in your ideal environment to encourage not just work but exceptional work.

S.M.A.R.T. Goals Are the Smart Choice

Be Specific, make it Measurable, ensure it’s Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. With these S.M.A.R.T goals in mind you can achieve any goal you set your mind to. Yes, even with something as simple as finally putting away the laundry.

Change Your Mindset & Make a Plan

If you thought procrastination was your greatest enemy, think again. It’s actually your mindset. If you think it’s impossible, it will be. So break it down until it looks ridiculously achievable. Even if that means Step 1 starts with, “Write Step 1.”   Don’t just brainstorm—map it out, visually. There are numerous studies that show crossing things off your list creates a positive adrenaline boost to your brain to keep your motivation chugging along. 

The 10-30 Rule

The 10-30 Rule is a simple mantra for those of us who struggle with completing tasks. 30 extra seconds or 10 extra steps, which will you choose? If you’re still struggling with this concept, consider reading the book The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy which outlines the idea that small steps compounded over time will help you achieve the life you’re proud to be living. 

Accountability: Your Secret Weapon

Disappointing someone is one of the worst feelings ever. Yet, when used appropriately it can become your greatest weapon to fight against procrastination. We’re more committed to promises made to others. Find an accountability partner and stick to the plan and the commitments you share with them. 

Find the Joy

Joy is what makes life worth living! Finding joy in your every day can help make your to-do list feel better. From listening to your favorite playlist to making your favorite craft coffee mid-day, find creative and easy ways to insert some joy into your day. Every completed task brings you closer to a productive day. Re-frame the experience and find joy in it.

Embark on Your Journey to Peak Productivity

It’s time to embrace a more fulfilling and productive work life! Dive into personalized strategies and support tailored just for you. Don’t just dream about peak productivity, make it a reality. Begin your journey today! Learn how you can reach your Peak Productivity with our help. Your future self will thank you!