Procrastination

[kags]

I have an accounts job I need to do, it isn't difficult just time consuming, once I start it I actually quite enjoy it, but I continually put it off, and end up surfing round the net, writing letters I have put off for months, cleaning out cupboards, darning socks, and surfing again. It is now urgent - I sat down tonight to do it but have found some other jobs I would rather do (like asking a question on Answerbank). Has anybody got any suggestions on how to FOCUS (I have considered unplugging the modem but I need my email access to finish the job). I am getting desperate......

[andy hughes]

Discipline is a difficult concept to master - I know, I do all those things instead of what I should be doing! The best thing is, sort out a reward for yourself, something you really like, and don't get often (leave it!) maybe a blow-out on CD's, a weekend away, what ever your taste and pocket will allow, and then promise yourself you can have the reward when you've done the job - and stick to it! Willpower will out, and if you cheat, the reward will be hollow and meaningless, stick with the plan, and it will be wonderful. Let us know how you get on.

[Dave Potts]

Go out for a walk (or a run) - gets a bit of oxygen to the old grey matter. Should help the concentration no end. Oh yes, try NOT to think about all the great telly you're missing, or how much nicer it would be to curl up in bed with a good book, throw a sicky and spend the rest of the week writing letters you've put off for months, cleaning out cupboards, darning socks, and surfing the 'net. That way madness lies....

[kags]

thank you for your encouragement. Andy - you always give such wonderful, thoughtful, sensitive and balanced advice - can I give you a job as my life coach??? - sorry, I don't look like Anna Friel though ;-). And Dave, I think you're right about the madness - I don't actually enjoy all the things I am doing to procrastinate because the guilt sinks in. I am going to get an early night, stop making excuses and get on with it.......tomorrow night, honest (good lord, if i can give up chocolate for 6 weeks I can do this)

[andy hughes]

Thank you for your kind words kags. Since I posted my reply, I've flogged my way through writing a feature about Graham Coxon, so now i casn have my Toffee Crisp as a reward - I know, my rewards are small, but they do mean a lot when they are earned. If I can be of further assistance, please re-post, and don't worry, I don't look like Dennis out of 'EastEnders' either!

[woofgang]

It may be silly i know but I say to myself, okay I can do this for fifteen minutes, then finished ot not, I will take a break for fifteen minutes and go back to it....works for me

[DuzyEverwork]

Procrastination is the thief of time.....etc

[kags]

I have spent 8 hours on the project today and I feel on top of the world!!!