One of the most significant barriers we confront in achieving our objectives is a lack of enthusiasm to begin. Procrastination is a huge problem, whether we’re putting off making an appointment or simply avoiding a tiresome project with an imminent deadline. This could be because we put things off until “someday,” and because “someday” doesn’t appear on the calendar, our good intentions never become a reality unless there are deadlines. The tactics listed below can help boost your motivation and reduce procrastination.

1. Divide your objectives into manageable chunks. 

It’s easy to put things off when you only think about the broader picture. Wishing to quit your day job to start a business or aiming to lose 50 pounds are examples of “someday” goals. If you break down your goals into smaller, more attainable targets, you may shift them into the current category and begin working on the actions to achieve the more modest aims.

2. Start Easy. 

Starting a task or an important project is difficult, but once you get past that hurdle, you’ll acquire momentum, and your brain will be more likely to nag you to finish it. This is related to the Zeigarnik effect, a psychological phenomenon in which incomplete tasks are more likely to become ingrained in your memory. This is also why your to-do list keeps popping up in your thoughts until you write it down.

3. Be Mindful.

Some procrastination stems from a fear of failure and perfectionism. To overcome this sort of procrastination, scientists recommend that you first listen to your inner monologue and mark any negative thoughts. Then, start controlling your worry with a deceptively essential seeming intervention if you notice yourself saying things like “This will be a disaster” or “I need this task to be faultless.” A simple method to do this is to question your doubts. Shaking your head while thinking about those ideas is one way to achieve this. While it may appear easy, new research suggests that it can benefit those constantly uncertain.

The number one killer of productivity is procrastination. Try these simple techniques to overcome procrastination, boost your productivity, get more done, and discover how they can transform your life.