The technical meaning of procrastination doesn’t sound innocuous; but it has serious implications.

Procrastination is the intentional and habitual postponement of an important task. When we intentionally sit on a task it could have various reasons but if it is done very frequently and has “habitual” underlinings then it is disastrous. Excellent performers have actually not fared well in their appraisals or reviews just because of their habit of not being able to respond on time.

First and foremost important step to overcome the habit of procrastination is to accept that it is problem which needs to be solved. Once the resolution to identify the solution has been made then the further steps can be identified. The individual must take conscious steps to recognize the difference between a justified decision to delay and an irrational postponement without justification.

There are several strategies that I have picked up from my own experiences, from observation and from reading.

1. Always make a to-do list with priorities. Also list your unimportant tasks, keep them for your last part of your day.
2. Always complete small and simple tasks as they will quickly makes your to-do list smaller and you happier. Schedule them for early in the day.
4. Break large jobs into smaller, more manageable tasks. This will also help you stay focused.
5. Take expertise input whenever possible, don’t delay just because you don’t have clear understanding of the task or that you are not sure how it will turn out.Sometimes it helps to give yourself a deadline for making a decision and the criteria for making it.
6. I read it in Joseph Murphy’s “The power of subconscious mind” that it always helps to develop a clear mental picture of the completed task and how you will feel at that time. Maintain a focus on the end result, not just the process. Remind yourself how good you’ll feel when you’re finished.
7. Keep your self physically fit and healthy. Long sittings can make you lethargic and lazy. Mind also becomes little inactive. So find time for physical training which will stimulate the brain with the oxygen and blood.
8. Reward yourself for accomplishments. Go out for special lunches when major projects are completed.
9. People delay because they want to get the project perfect. Maintain your high standards, but recognize that sometimes 80% for you may well be 100% for someone else. Don’t spend hours conducting a detailed cost breakdown when a rough estimate would suffice.
10. Sometimes losing concentration causes delays. Take every step to avoid distraction from work – no surfing on net, chat boxes, emails, face book or twitter.