Dear Jacquelyn,

I often find myself procrastinating. If there is something that I do not want to do, I can find plenty of different reasons to avoid one simple task. Can you suggest some ways to stop procrastinating?

Dear Reader,

The best way to conquer procrastination is by creating a to-do list.

When you make a checklist of everything that needs to be done, the task does not seem so overwhelming. You can mark things off over a week, a month, or a year. Even though a year feels quite long, some people need that time-frame.

Once it is written down on paper and posted somewhere that you can see it on a daily basis, you are more prone to take charge.

There is an art to creating and keeping a to-do list. The list should have tasks in priority and a time frame of completion. You can continue to add to your list and delete as you accomplish each goal.

Disconnecting from technology is also a huge help. While technology can potentially make our lives easier and more interesting at the touch of a button, most people can quickly get distracted by looking at their social media feed rather than completing an overdue project.

One incoming text from a friend or family member can derail an entire venture. Multiply that text by 3 or more, and you will waste an entire afternoon responding to non-emergency texts.

It would be wise to put your phone on “do not disturb,” turn it off, or place it in a drawer in another room. You can check it from time to time, but make a commitment not to respond to unnecessary texts until your project is complete.

Whatever it is that you are avoiding, just do it and get it over with.

You will feel better and have more time to concentrate on the things you enjoy.

Respectfully Yours,

Jacquelyn

Have a question? Email: jacquelyn@ptd.net. Jacquelyn Youst is owner of the Pennsylvania Academy of Protocol, specializing in etiquette training.

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