The Art of 'Pre-crastination'
by Nadia Kean
Have you ever found yourself sitting down to tackle an important task, only to realize an hour later that you've unexpectedly completed everything else but that? Yes, the laundry's folded, dishes are sparkling clean, but the task at hand remains untouched. This phenomenon, which I like to call "pre-crastination" or "procrasta-making,” isn't just a quirk. It's a potential goldmine for productivity – if you know how to use it right.
Exploring Procrastination: Often, we view procrastination as a negative habit, an obstacle to efficiency. However, the reasons behind procrastination can be complex and varied. Dr. Piers Steel, author of "The Procrastination Equation," suggests that a lack of motivation is a key factor. But motivation isn't always straightforward. Take my experience post-Pilates Certification: I was eager to teach but hesitated to schedule sessions, creating an unintentional standstill in my teaching career.
A New Perspective on Procrastination: So, what happens when we end up doing chores while avoiding something else? It seems counterintuitive - dishes and laundry aren't exactly thrilling. Yet, they represent achievable tasks that give us a sense of accomplishment. Studies consistently show that productivity boosts our mood, while procrastination tends to bring us down. By tackling these smaller tasks, we're still productive, just in a different way than initially planned.
Embracing 'Pre-crastination': I suggest embracing those moments of 'pre-crastination.' For instance, if you're avoiding tax filing but end up clearing seven other tasks, you've still had a productive day. It's about reorganizing your priorities and acknowledging the work you have completed. These small victories can set you up for more focused work later. Also consider the positive energy you are building up by acknowledging all those tasks. That energy is exactly what you need to cultivate to get the big tasks completed.
Doable's Role in Navigating Procrastination: If procrastination persists, especially with crucial tasks like taxes or long term business tasks, Doable is here to help. Our Accountability Buddies team up with Doers to identify and tackle those looming tasks. Our approach is collaborative and supportive, ensuring that your goals are met with enthusiasm and dedication. When you cross off a lingering item from your to-do list, it's a shared triumph.
Procrastination, viewed through the lens of 'pre-crastination,' can be a surprising ally in your productivity journey. To discover how Doable’s Accountability Buddies can transform your procrastination into progress, visit us at SoDoable.com.
