Ok, so we can admit it...we're couch potatoes by nature. Between the two of us, we've tried every app, book, and system to get motivated.
We know we're not alone in this because so many performers suffer with procrastination issues. But let's face it: putting things off until the last minute or until it's too late does nothing more than cause MORE stress, so why do we do this to ourselves?
It can happen because for a myriad of reasons. Some of us just feel overwhelmed. Some of us aren't great multitaskers and doubt their ability to get it all done. Others keep letting the voice in their head tell them things like, "You're not smart enough, you're not attractive enough and you have no talent."
Whatever your Achilles heel is, there are ways to curb procrastination and emerge motivated and victorious!
(Ok, ok... so maybe it won't make you feel like Frodo, carrying the ring to it's final destination in Mordor, but you get the point.)
Here are a few ways to overcome your procrastination:
Eliminate distractions - If you're like us, working from home, there is ALWAYS something that "needs" to get done that's easier or more enjoyable. Just walking from the desk to get a drink in the kitchen, there are rooms that need to be cleaned, laundry that needs to be folded, dogs to be walked and Prime shows that aren't going to watch themselves.
The best way we've discovered to diminish the power of those distractions is to close the door to the office, clear off the desk and focus on one task at a time.
Break up the task - The thought of working on the same project for 8 hours, or until it's done, is NOT appealing.
So, start by setting a timer and breaking up the project into smaller bits.
For instance, in order to start the process of building a new cabaret show, set a timer for 30 - 45 minutes with a single task- like selecting music and working until the timer goes off.
Then, walk away and take a short 5-minute break. For those of us who are HARD-CORE procrastinators, it's a good idea to set a timer for your break, too.
Find an accountability buddy - Procrastinators need support. Someone to hold our feet to the fire and encourage us to keep going.
Public shaming also works wonders. Ask your buddy to make sure you complete your task for the week- and if you don't- it's their job to post all about it on Instagram. (Make sure you pick your friend who will ACTUALLY go through with this.)
Final word:
Stop beating yourself up. We all have shortcomings, and the last thing we need is more guilt in our lives.
Start small and keep going! When you complete a task, reward yourself with a Chai Tea Latte...
Let us know how you win the battle with your procrastination in the comments below!