Most of us are guilty of procrastinating from time to time. Being at home more often increases the temptation to fill time with non-work activities—cleaning the dirty dishes, vacuuming the pet-hair-laden carpets, or catching up on Netflix (especially when the couch is right there).
For National Fighting Procrastination Day, on Sept. 6, we got tips from Red Fan leadership on their approaches to fighting procrastination and inspiring productivity. Here is what they said on how they get things done:
ALICIA, SUPERVISOR OF CLIENT SERVICES:
As a manager for a fast-paced business in the services industry, procrastination isn’t an option. Our ability to attract and retain the caliber of clients we work with depends on delivering top-tier work, which can’t be thrown together on the fly. Time management is key, so I avoid procrastination by relying on project management software and calendar blocks. I use Asana to map out tasks and projects in advance with due dates relative to other projects and meetings. However, being responsible for managing both projects and people means that unexpected curveballs can happen at any moment. So if I’m approaching a deadline that can’t move, I’ll block time on my calendar to ensure I have the time needed to tackle a project and sure the timeline stays on track.
KATHLEEN, CEO AND FOUNDER:
Ending procrastination is all about being in the right mindset. My best thinking happens at the office early in the morning or at the end of the day, or even the weekends when I’m alone. I invest in time alone for walks outside to brew ideas in my mind.
When I’m ready to write, I make a cup of tea in one of my favorite mugs. Then, tell everyone I’m not available for a few hours, turn on inspirational music and get to typing. I don’t edit while I write, I just get all my thoughts out on paper.
Then I sit with the article for a day or two, reviewing it and having someone else weigh in. It’s an artistic process that requires collaboration and testing of ideas, but the end result is one I love.
MIMI, DIRECTOR OF NEW BUSINESS:
If you don’t know how to tackle a problem or a task, I find doing ‘mindless’ things help me. Taking a shower, washing dishes, calling a friend. Just a few minutes away from the task I need to tackle helps me reset.
