10 WAYS TO BOOST PRODUCTIVITY (AND BEAT PROCRASTINATION)

by: Remie Longbrake | published: May 11, 2025

We’ve all been there. That looming deadline, the unfinished project, the nagging feeling of guilt—all hallmarks of procrastination. It’s a common struggle, but thankfully, it’s one you can overcome. Procrastination isn’t a character flaw; it’s a habit, and like any habit, it can be broken. This guide offers ten practical strategies to help you conquer procrastination and finally achieve your goals.

1. Break Down Large Tasks: Feeling overwhelmed is a major procrastination trigger. A massive project can seem insurmountable, leading to inaction. The solution? Break it down! Divide your large task into smaller, more manageable sub-tasks. Instead of “write a 10-page paper,” your list might include “research topic,” “create outline,” “write introduction,” and so on. This makes the overall project feel less daunting and provides a sense of accomplishment as you complete each smaller step. Celebrate these small wins—they are crucial for maintaining momentum.

2. Time Blocking & Prioritization: Time is a precious resource, and effective time management is key to overcoming procrastination. Use a planner or calendar to allocate specific time blocks for your tasks. Prioritize your tasks based on urgency and importance using methods like the Eisenhower Matrix (urgent/important). This helps you focus your energy on what truly matters and prevents you from getting bogged down in less significant activities. Schedule your most challenging tasks for when you’re most alert and energetic.

3. The Pomodoro Technique: This popular time management method involves working in focused bursts with short breaks in between. Typically, this involves 25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break. After four “pomodoros,” take a longer break of 15-20 minutes. This structured approach prevents burnout and helps maintain concentration. Experiment with different work/break intervals to find what works best for you.

4. Eliminate Distractions: Distractions are the enemy of productivity. Identify your common distractions—social media, email, noisy environments—and actively minimize them. Turn off notifications, close unnecessary tabs on your computer, find a quiet workspace, and let others know you need uninterrupted time. Investing in noise-canceling headphones can also significantly reduce distractions.

5. The Two-Minute Rule: If a task takes less than two minutes, do it immediately. This simple rule prevents small tasks from piling up and becoming overwhelming. Responding to a quick email, washing a single dish, or putting away a stray item—these small actions, done promptly, prevent the build-up of mental clutter that fuels procrastination.

6. Set Realistic Goals: Setting overly ambitious goals can lead to discouragement and procrastination. Start with achievable goals that you can realistically accomplish. As you build confidence and momentum, gradually increase the difficulty of your goals. Remember, progress, not perfection, is the key.

7. Reward Yourself: Positive reinforcement is a powerful motivator. Set up a reward system for yourself to celebrate your accomplishments. After completing a task or reaching a milestone, treat yourself to something you enjoy—a cup of coffee, a walk in the park, or watching an episode of your favorite show. These rewards reinforce positive behavior and make the process more enjoyable.

8. Embrace Imperfection: Strive for excellence, but don’t let the pursuit of perfection paralyze you. Perfectionism is a major driver of procrastination. Remember that it’s okay to make mistakes. Learn from them and move forward. Done is better than perfect.

9. Seek Accountability: Sharing your goals with someone you trust can provide a powerful boost of accountability. A friend, family member, or colleague can offer support, encouragement, and check-in on your progress. Consider joining a study group or finding a work buddy to help keep you motivated.

10. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Procrastination is a common struggle, and it’s okay to slip up occasionally. Don’t beat yourself up over it. Instead, acknowledge your feelings, forgive yourself, and refocus on your goals. Remember that progress takes time and effort, and celebrate every small victory along the way.

By implementing these strategies, you can gradually break free from the grip of procrastination and unlock your full potential. You’ve got this!