Happy New Year!

So this is the time of year for ‘new beginnings’ as we make resolutions—only to break them within weeks –if we even do them at all.  As for me, I made a ‘bucket list’ about 4 years ago and I’ve accomplished one item on it.   I also have a massive list of objectives that I began working on back in September/October that has fallen to the wayside.   I’m a procrastinator (under reconstruction) so I personally am not a fan of New Year resolutions.  There has to be a better way to get things done!

My bulging list of objectives actually consist of assignments acquired from working with my life coach. It serves to remind me of why I signed up in the first place—to get my life back on the tracks and make true measurable progress in the weeks and months ahead.  The challenge is figuring out how to break through my bad habits so I can accomplish them. This is how I intend to do it:

• Keep the objectives in front of me because I’ve realized that if it’s out of sight, it’s truly out of my mind—until I remember it later! I plan to do this by adding them to my calendar and setting alarms.
• Break larger tasks into even smaller chunks. I have a tendency to allow myself to be distracted and overwhelmed.
• Break my day into ‘assignment’ times. For instance from 8-11 career objectives, 12-3 art development or writing, etc. Since I’m not working right now, I’ve found that my tendency to multi-task is counter-productive.
• Chart my progress with a Gantt charting tool.
• Stop dwelling on the outcomes (it has to be ‘perfect’). Just perform the task(s) until complete. I can always go back and improve.
• Make myself accountable to people I know will ‘push’ me.
• Break away from social media because it too can be an unwanted distraction.
• Reward myself. I have a huge wish list on Amazon that would motivate me.

I’ve realized from past experience that making resolutions only brings me more anxiety and stress.  The end result is that nothing gets done and I’m back to square one.  I’m going to try a new approach. Then… I’m going to relax and let it flow.

Bolder Sisters, what are your methods to break away from procrastination?

Kim Woods earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Information Systems at DeVry University.  She developed a love for writing poetry and short stories as a child.  Kim is socially conscience and her desire to use her life experiences to help others is what drives her to seek opportunities to share her story.  She decided to write freelance for the Bolder Sister because it is her desire that women evolve and thrive in their own authentic truth.

Kim resides in Chicago, Illinois and has one son, Donald.  In addition to writing, she spends free time creating unique wall art, decorating, and teaching herself how to sculpture.