11 Simple Strategies to Blow Through Procrastination and Get Things Done!
“I know I need to do X, but I just can’t seem to get myself to do it.”
This is something a business coaching client shared with me recently—and it’s something I hear all the time. In fact, more than half the business owners I know struggle with this at some point: the inability to take action on their most important tasks.
Top 3 Causes of Procrastination
- Fear: Whether it’s fear of failure, not knowing where to begin, or feeling overwhelmed, fear can stop you cold.
- Habit: We often fall into familiar but unproductive routines. Comfort becomes the enemy of growth.
- Perfectionism: Waiting for the “perfect” moment—or trying to do it *just right*—can keep you from starting at all.
11 Simple Ways to Beat Procrastination and Get Moving
1. Just show up and get started.
When I was training for the Olympics, some days I didn’t feel like working out. But if I just showed up at the gym or track and started moving, I’d usually end up having a great session. Give yourself permission to stop after 10 minutes—you probably won’t.
2. Go through the motions.
This is inertia in action. In physics, it’s overcoming the coefficient of static friction. Once you’re moving, it’s easier to keep going.
3. Do it imperfectly.
If perfectionism is stopping you, aim for a “beta version.” Call it a draft. Free yourself from the pressure of perfection and just begin.
4. Do it now! Do it now! Do it now!
Say it out loud. Get up and take action—don’t overthink it. Just move.
5. Get a “gym buddy” or accountability partner.
When someone else expects you to follow through, motivation spikes. A check-in text or a quick call can work wonders.
6. Use a mastermind group and make a realistic commitment.
Mastermind groups offer shared accountability, fresh perspectives, and encouragement. Let peer pressure push you forward.
7. Set a cool reward.
Promise yourself something enjoyable—dinner out, a walk, or a new gadget—after you finish. Bribery works, even when it’s self-imposed.
8. Make it a game.
Put on music, set a 20-minute timer, and race to see how much you can accomplish before the buzzer. Great for competitive types!
9. Chunk it up—or down.
Break overwhelming tasks into bite-sized steps. Or, if too fragmented, group parts together to simplify. Just make that first step manageable.
10. Get clear on your fear—and accept the worst-case scenario.
Once you name the fear and accept the worst possible outcome, the emotional weight often lifts—and action becomes possible.
11. Build personal integrity: Do what you say you’ll do.
Start small. Be on time. Keep tiny promises. Each act strengthens your “integrity muscle”—a key to beating procrastination long-term.
Remember, procrastination isn’t laziness—it’s an avoidance habit. These tools can help you rewire your patterns and reclaim your momentum. Try one today—you may surprise yourself.