Cut Down On Procrastination By Turning Negative Feelings Into Positive Ones

Procrastination is one of those things we all experience. Sometimes you may be procrastinating on calling a friend to deliver bad news, other times on finishing a work project. In all cases, what you’re procrastinating on likely needs to get done, more often sooner rather than later.

This week Fast Company posted an article with a great suggestion on how to combat that procrastination: turn your negative feelings into positive ones.

Typically the reason why we procrastinate on a project is that we expect a negative outcome, at least to some extent. Instead, try putting a positive spin on things to help motivate you to get through them.

For instance, while the news you have to deliver your friend is bad, think about how much better it will be once they hear that news and are able to move forward. That big project you have? Think about how awesome it will be once it’s done, how it will move you close to a goal, or be a solid addition to something else you’re working on.

The Fast Company article also suggests starting each day by thinking about one of your most recent successes, and also a few minutes each day to think about (or write about!) a few things you’re grateful for.

And finally, have confidence in yourself that you’re going to complete the test and do a good job. If you don’t have confidence in yourself you’ll have a hard time moving forward. If you do, you can potentially be unstoppable.