As I wrote this title I smiled at the paradoxical phrase. This seeming double negative actually means, “get moving!” (How confusing. No wonder my English teacher always told me, “never use double-negatives.”)

I can get into lazy moments like the best of them, but these are some tactics I have learned along the way that help me get moving, feel more productive, and accomplish more on my To-Do list.

:: Create a manageable task. Set time limits and clearly define your task.

When you see that well defined item on your To-Do list, you will immediately know what you need to get it done, and how much energy and time it will take. This helps me plan when I am going to tackle that item. I do my writing in the morning when my mind is fresh and I do yard work when the grass is dry and I have energy in the late morning. I like to pen note-card messages to family members living faraway in the evening after dinner.

:: Minimize distractions and stay focused when you are working.

Staying focused is a big challenge when the phone is ringing, your boss is e-mailing you “urgently”, and you had that extra glass of wine last night and you are feeling a bit under the weather. Here is what worked for me:

To stave off procrastination and get going: take a few deep breaths, grab a bottle of cool water, make sure your work space is well lit (and uncluttered if possible), turn off distractions (forward your phone, and close your e-mail window), choose one task to tackle, set your timer for 30 minutes, and GO.

You may be surprised at how much you accomplish when your focus is “focusing.”

:: Use limited incentives and rewards.

Bonus incentives and comp vacation day rewards can increase productivity. Use the same philosophy in your life. I chose to reward myself with a 90 minute massage after we complete the front landscaping project, complete with a foot-path, stone border, and full plant and shrub plan installation. (I think I might need a little Ibuprofen-reward afterward too.) 

I learned these techniques from one of my college roommates who loved to “power study.” She would set her alarm clock for 30 minutes; shut off all other distractions, like music, the phone ringer, and the computer; name her reward; and open up her books. When her alarm sounded, she’d shut her books and reach for those gummy bears, or the phone to call her family in Hawaii, or watch TV.  After 15 minutes, she would do it all again. She found these short study times filled with rewards helped her keep going.

I hope this “plan” helps you stop procrastination in it’s tracks. Do you have any favorite tips on how you “get it done?” Leave a comment here and share your helpful hints with other readers! Happy Organizing, and get moving!