In the quest to overcome procrastination, the key is to never stop moving towards your dream.
The key is to never stop moving towards your dream. It was harder for me because I did step away for months and years at a time. I allowed my procrastination and perfectionism to obstruct taking the next steps. I was also met with psychological paralysis at certain points. After emotionally exhausting days spent culling through boxes of trial material at the 26th and California courthouse, I shelved the book and planned my wedding instead. Much more fun material to work with.
I finally realized I needed outer accountability. I highly advise taking Gretchen Rubin’s Four Tendencies quiz to see how you function in terms of accountability needs. I’ve always met the expectations of bosses and others, but I don’t hold my own feet to the fire. I gave 40-60 hours a week to companies I worked for, but never gave that time to my own freelance writing business.
Once I learned what the problem was, I adjusted my go-it-alone mentality. I hired a productivity coach, and with a group of like-minded perfectionists, began to make myself answerable to them and my daily check-ins. Within that first six months, I completed my “shitty first draft.” A few years and many drafts later, I am on the verge of calling the book finished. At least until an agent and editor get their hands on it.
I’ve learned to set a timer for 20 minutes and get to work. You can do anything for 10-20 minutes, and once you’re going, you often continue. This works wonderfully for non-writing as well. Clean that closet or junk-drawer in 20 minute spurts. (Just don’t let Marie Kondo see you doing it that way.) What projects do you want to finish in 2022? How can I help you overcome obstacles?
Yes, those 20-minute spurts are life-changing! Looking forward to continuing the journey we’ve been on for several years!