If this is you, if you’re in a cycle of procrastinating, this post is for you.
I have been procrastinating for a while, to the point where it is embarrassing. When my avoidance of responsibilities, because that’s what it is, costs me a large sum of money, I realize OK something has to give! This is lack of responsibility, this avoidance is becoming expensive.
Sometimes, even money is not the best incentive, and even if there are late fees, paying extra or valuing time or money (which is another issue) may not curb the bad habit, so, what else can you do?
I had a close friend of mine tell me to reward myself when I complete a task or project.
I looked at that my dear friend and gave them a cross face and thought to myself I’m not a child, what type of reward would I give myself?
And they mentioned that the reward must match the effort. Example because I am a student, I often have to write papers or complete assignments by the middle and end of the week. These assignments can take up to 2 to 4 hours per day or longer. because I don’t like to sit still and I know it ahead of time, I set an alarm clock for those hours, and other than standing to stretch I stay put and I get my work done and at the end of timer I give myself a reward.
If I get my week of work done I can order out, dinner or dessert.
These are just examples but you have to choose something out of the norm, maybe your reward is a purse you’ve been eyeing, and so if you get an A or B, you’ll purchase the purse.
What you’re doing takes discipline, that’s what we’re working towards, so don’t cheat yourself, this is for you. If you don’t succeed the first time, keep trying.
I’m mentioning this now; because I have to do this again, moving to a new location, starting over and learning to depend on myself. I want to keep succeeding with my plans.
This works with kids, once we hold them accountable, and they stick to it, they are proud of themselves. We are big kids too, so let’s start the challenge as a new week approaches.
Mahola,
Treasure Curry 