When I began writing this blog, I had zero clue on how to start. The first thing I did was freeze, staring apprehensively at the impatient, forever blinking cursor on my Google Doc. I’ve always hated that helpless feeling, the one that drains me before I even begin my project. And it’s especially difficult for me to start work because I’m a procrastinator, and that invisible, insurmountable wall blocking my motivation makes it feel far easier to just give up.
Even in order to write even this little blog post, I still had to fight my habitual procrastination. No matter the project, it’s going to be a battle every time. But even just knowing a few tips and tricks can help anyone get out of the procrastination limbo and back to work.
Now, here’s how I’ve learned to overcome that pesky motivation block. For me, it’s most helpful to find the right space when I work. I prefer quiet, empty spaces where I can gather my thoughts and be free from distractions. A consistent space for work is also useful. Linking a specific space to being productive can help to set your brain in the right mindset, even before you start doing a single thing.
But it’s important to note that no place is ever going to be just right. I always have to remind myself that you can’t wait for the perfect conditions to start work- You’ll end up waiting forever. I’ve even worked in busy coffee shops when I’ve had to.
Now, to address the heart of the matter: The cause of my lack of motivation. I often find it difficult to start without an urgent deadline or a solid timeline because I can’t find it in myself to muster up enough energy to start.
While I’ve heard that it can be useful to stress yourself with an artificial deadline, I can say from experience that this is not a healthy long-term strategy. Stressing yourself out all the time to get things done will make you associate work with stress, and that can potentially lead to even more procrastination.
I prefer to trick my brain into getting work done. And I know that sounds a little strange, but it is by far the most helpful trick for me to get working.
Here’s how it’s done: Before I start working, I set a timer and say to myself that I’ll only work for ten minutes. After all, ten minutes isn’t too bad, right? But once I actually start- which for me is the hardest part- I work for far longer. Ten minutes turns into thirty minutes, and before I know it I’m up to an hour of work.
Now I can celebrate: I’m actually working! And this joy keeps me going as I work, creating a positive feedback loop associated with being productive.
But even this rush of dopamine can fade, especially when working on a tedious or hard task. It’s crucial to note that no matter how engaged you are in the task, you have to remember to take breaks. I tend to take a little break every hour, and they are very beneficial. A little pause to drink water and stretch can do so much to keep yourself sharp, and avoid losing motivation as you’re working.
But no matter how things go, remember to be kind to yourself. Motivation is a tricky thing, and everyone will have bad days. Even trying is still an accomplishment.
After all, getting just a little done is better than doing nothing at all.
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