Even though we may have the best of intentions, and, at the core of our very beings, be hard-working individuals, we all can have bouts of procrastination and laziness. In fact, some experts say that the higher our expectations of ourselves and the more perfectionistic we may be, the more inclined we are to be procrastinators. But, just because we’re inclined to wrestle with procrastination and laziness, doesn’t mean we have to give in. Here are some suggestions for recognizing and combating these traits that can keep us from being successful in our home businesses.
Laziness and procrastination can also be linked to fear. We may fear that we will make a mistake, or not be able to rise to the challenges of our business. Instead of pushing past the fear and taking the risks or doing what needs to be done, we may feel immobilized and this can present itself as laziness. We can just feel so overwhelmed that we can’t get moving. The key in combating this type of reaction is to identify and understand what is happening. We need to recognize that fear or anxiety is causing us to put things off or simply avoid making effort. By acknowledging what is happening, we’re better equipped to make other choices to keep from falling into the cycle of inactivity, feeling terrible and more inactivity.
For those of us who tend to be perfectionists, we have to train ourselves to do our best and let go of the outcome. Letting go of the outcome can be so incredibly difficult for people who tend to procrastinate. We don’t want to do anything unless we can do it perfectly, so, we often don’t do anything. Growing a business isn’t necessarily about being perfect. It’s about building momentum and doing our best to keep things moving forward. If we are able to develop a plan and reasonable goals and work at meeting those goals—instead of being perfect and exemplary at everything—we may be able to combat the procrastination with activity. Try reminding yourself that you just have to do your best—and keep moving!
Remember that Rome wasn’t built in a day—when you feel procrastination and laziness start to take hold, just start trying to set little goals and accomplish them. Try making a do-able list and checking things off as you are able to get them done. This will help you get un-stuck and start to feel good and energized, which, in turn, inspires you to put more into your business.