Conquering Procrastination and Perfectionism: A Guide to Growth
Written on
Chapter 1: Breaking Free from Fear
Overcoming procrastination, anxiety about outreach, and the chains of perfectionism can be incredibly challenging. However, reflecting on past victories can provide motivation and clarity.
Imagine bars piercing through your heart; each beat adds a new layer of struggle, yet you know escape is possible because you've done it before. You’ve navigated through the guards of fear and kicked aside the doubts, but somehow, you find yourself back in a cage.
Cages can feel oddly comfortable. They offer a sense of security and familiarity, even if they are detrimental. They are like sirens, luring you into unhealthy habits that create a cycle of dependency. I have identified five significant cages in my life, and here’s how I’m working to dismantle them and turn them into a challenge.
Section 1.1: Procrastination and Productivity
Procrastination is a common struggle for many, including myself. I admire those who can simply power through tasks, but I know I can’t rely solely on my self-discipline. Instead, I lean on external tools to help keep my focus in check, specifically Siri and Toggl Track.
Subsection 1.1.1: Utilizing Siri for Accountability
I engage with Siri by saying, "Set a timer for five minutes." This practice isn’t about racing to finish but about creating a moment to refocus when I drift away from my tasks. I reset the timer throughout the day, enabling me to stay on track.
Subsection 1.1.2: The Role of Toggl Track
Toggl Track serves as more than just a time tracker; it’s a reminder that I am indeed working on something. Often, I lose focus completely, forgetting what I was doing. When I check Toggl Track, it reorients me back to my task, allowing me to maintain momentum.
Subsection 1.1.3: Embracing "Next!" and Rewarding Progress
I also use the word "Next!" to keep myself moving forward. This simple reminder allows me to push past sticking points in my tasks. Additionally, I reward myself after completing energy-intensive or time-consuming tasks. My planner helps me categorize activities and plan rewards, such as a brief nap or time to read, once I finish.
Now, let’s take a moment to watch a video from The Art of Improvement that offers insights on improving by just 1% each day:
What do you think? More importantly, what will your next 1% improvement be? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Section 1.2: Overcoming Outreach Anxiety
I aim to connect more with potential clients and readers but often find myself hesitant. To tackle this, I’ve started compiling a list of companies that may need my services. When I feel particularly anxious, I reach out to simpler opportunities, such as companies that have straightforward application processes or send direct messages on social media.
With each outreach, I become braver, gradually overcoming my fears. Remember, rejection isn’t fatal; it’s a part of growth. Let’s take a deep breath and reach out to others to let them know we are here.
Chapter 2: The Perils of Perfectionism
Perfectionism can be one of the hardest habits to break. To combat this tendency, I remind myself of all the individuals who could benefit from my work if I allow it to see the light of day instead of perfecting it endlessly in my mind.
The struggle against perfectionism is ongoing, but I’m gradually finding ways to escape its clutches. The guards of perfectionism are relentless, but I’m learning to break free. This article is merely a lightly edited draft, but I find satisfaction in sharing it, embracing the imperfections.
Embracing imperfection can be liberating. What about you? What steps will you take to overcome your own perfectionism?