11 ways to stop procrastinating and get things done

Procrastinating, we're all familiar with it. We have this work deadline or project deadline but instead of doing what needs to be done, we mess around with tiny things. We fiddle with this and that and fidget like there's not tomorrow. We decide it's a good idea to spend a ridiculous amount of time surfing the web, taking a nap, or reading when we're supposed to be working. Why?

We've all done it at one point or another and then we realize it's too late. We start to panic and we hastily get our work done. Once done, we repeat what we've done with the next project; it's like some sort of an inevitable circle, a loop we cannot get out of.

Being a massive procrastinator myself, decided to dig into the topic and find little tricks and methods that could help me avoid this habit. Here's what I learned so far:

Start dividing the task at hand to miniature tasks and focus on getting them done one at a time. If you're still avoiding the miniature tasks, then divide them into even smaller tasks until they seem ridiculously simple. Once you see how simple they are, you wouldn't avoid doing them anymore.

Having to focus on just one deadline will inevitably make you procrastinate. Instead, create a calendar with all deadlines and hang it somewhere where it is clearly seen and cannot be avoided. Break down those deadlines to smaller tasks with deadlines.

Seeing as to how everything is on the Internet at the moment, including most, if not all, work and assignments, it's easy to get distracted by things. Delete all browser bookmarks that you use as distractions and deactivate automatic notifications from private emails and social media platforms while working. Make yourself focus on what needs to be done and get it done on time.

If you're finding it hard to concentrate on your own, find a friend who is also working on something and work together. Seeing someone else working while you're messing around will motivate you to do your thing without any procrastination.

This is the fun part. Simply tell yourself that if you get X number of tasks down before a certain period of time, you will treat yourself for a nice dinner or an outing with your friends. Treat yourself with something simple yet satisfying, such as ice cream.

Create consequences of your actions of procrastination. If you do not finish a certain number of tasks before the end of the working day, you will be forced to forgo the dinner party at your friend's place. After all, you'll be working.

No one likes to be embarrassed or put on the spot, so telling people what your goals are or when your deadline are, or generally talking about the "monumental" amount of work you need to get done before a deadline, will give you the push you need to get the work done indeed.

Don't over analyze or over think the tasks you need to get done, because the more you do, the more complicated they get in your head. Remember, sometimes there is no "perfect" decision; sometimes the best thing you can is simply make one.

Sometimes, you're really just in "meh" mood and don't feel like doing anything. Making yourself feel bad about it will not achieve anything. Instead of being too hard on yourself, redirect the tasks to something equally as productive. For instance, do a bit of research for upcoming projects or brainstorm for brand new, out of the box ideas. This will inspire, or rather get rid of the "meh" mood and you'll find yourself going back to the task that you need to finish.

Instead of constantly complaining about the amount of work you have to do or how much you dislike it, realize that at the end of the day, it needs to get done anyway. Start readjusting your attitude toward the tasks you don't like and find a way to do them while still enjoying your time. For example, instead of saying "ugh, I have to get this stupid proposal today," say "I need the credits for this paper." A simple difference in perspective would allow you to not only get it done, but get the task done well.

There is time for work and time for fun. While you can still have fun while working, it cannot be the only purpose and become accountable tor your actions. For instance, don't spend the night out drinking and showing up to work the next morning with a numb mind and smell of tequila shots. You'll slack off and you will give yourself excuses to procrastinate.