Procrastination is the silent productivity killer we all struggle with from time to time. Whether you're an experienced accountant balancing client deadlines or someone just starting in the industry, the urge to put off tasks until the last minute can be overwhelming. But don’t worry—overcoming procrastination is possible, and it doesn’t have to be a Herculean task. At ProTalent, we understand the demands of the accountancy world and want to help you become the most productive version of yourself. Here’s a friendly guide to help you kick procrastination to the kerb and make the most of your time.
First, it’s important to understand why you procrastinate.
Is it fear of failure? Perfectionism? Or simply feeling overwhelmed by a massive to-do list? By identifying the root cause, you can address it directly. For example, if you’re a perfectionist, remind yourself that no task needs to be perfect—good enough is often just fine. If it’s overwhelm, break down your tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
Setting clear, achievable goals is crucial.
Vague tasks like "finish tax returns" can feel daunting and easy to push aside. Instead, break them down into specific, actionable steps. For example, “compile client receipts by noon,” followed by “review last year's returns by 3pm.” By setting clear deadlines for these smaller tasks, you’ll find them easier to start—and finish.
A useful tip is to adopt the two-minute rule.
If a task will take less than two minutes to complete, do it immediately. Whether it’s replying to an email, filing a document, or setting up a meeting, the two-minute rule helps clear small tasks off your plate quickly, giving you a sense of accomplishment and freeing up mental space for bigger projects.
Another effective method is the Pomodoro Technique.
This time management method breaks work into 25-minute intervals, called "Pomodoros," followed by a five-minute break. After four Pomodoros, take a longer break of 15-30 minutes. This technique helps maintain focus and prevents burnout. You’ll be amazed at how much you can accomplish in just 25 minutes when you’re fully focused.
Creating a distraction-free environment is also essential.
In today’s digital age, distractions are everywhere—emails, social media, and phone notifications can all pull you away from your work. Set up a distraction-free workspace where you can focus on your tasks. Silence your phone, close unnecessary tabs on your computer, and consider using productivity apps that block distracting websites during work hours.
Don’t forget to reward yourself after completing a particularly challenging task.
Rewards can be a great motivator, whether it’s a coffee break, a walk outside, or even a quick chat with a colleague. Rewards don’t have to be big; just something to look forward to that can help push you through a tough project.
Prioritising your tasks is another key to overcoming procrastination.
Not all tasks are created equal. Use the Eisenhower Matrix to prioritise your tasks by urgency and importance. Focus first on tasks that are both urgent and important, and schedule time for those that are important but not urgent. Delegate or eliminate tasks that are neither urgent nor important. By prioritising effectively, you’ll spend more time on what truly matters. A great site to find out more about the Eisenhower Matrix is this Asana article, it clearly breaks down each quadrant of the matrix.
It's also important to practice self-compassion.
Everyone procrastinates from time to time, and beating yourself up over it will only make it harder to get back on track. Practice self-compassion by acknowledging that procrastination is a common struggle and focus on the positive steps you’re taking to overcome it. We know it can come across as 'cringy' and sometimes disingenuous but practicing mindfulness and self reflecting really can benefit your daily life. You can start simply by writing down a thing a day that you are happy to have accomplished.
Reviewing and reflecting on your progress can be very helpful.
Following on from practicing self compassion, at the end of each day or week, take a few minutes to review what you’ve accomplished and reflect on what could have gone better. This not only gives you a sense of achievement but also helps you identify patterns in your procrastination habits so you can address them in the future.
Sometimes, the best way to stop procrastinating is to get support.
Whether it's talking through a project with a colleague, seeking advice from a mentor, or using accountability tools, don't be afraid to reach out. At ProTalent, we're here to support you, whether you're looking for your next career move or just need tips on how to be more productive.
Procrastination doesn’t have to be a permanent fixture in your work life. By implementing these strategies, you can start working more efficiently, reduce stress, and feel more in control of your workload. Remember, productivity isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what matters most. So take a deep breath, dive into that task you’ve been putting off, and watch your productivity soar.
Here’s to a more productive you!
Looking for more tips on productivity and planning? Stay tuned for our next blog post where we’ll dive into productive planning strategies to keep you ahead of the game.