Die, Procrastination, Die!

I was going to put off creating this newsletter about procrastination... but then I didn’t. Here’s how.

#1 Short blocks of focus, followed by a break

I set a timer for 27 minutes and pick what I want to focus on during that time. After the timer goes off I set a timer for 2 minutes and get away from the computer. 

Actual break activities:

• look out the window (change my visual range)
• do some sun salutations or stretch
• lie on the floor with eyes closed
• deep breaths
• push-ups (I think I’ve only done this twice :-)

The point is to reset your brain and body, get the blood moving in a different way, give your eyes a break, and generally re-align your intentions. By having a focus when you sit down you’re more likely to get that thing done (or make significant progress). Using a timer can remind you to break off that unintended sidetracking you were doing.
 
Do I do this all the time? Ahhh... no. But when I have the discipline to do it I’m crazy productive.
 
I’ve been informed this technique has a name: the Pomodoro.

#2 Even shorter blocks of focus

Merlin Mann at 43folders.com talked about the Procrastination Dash/Hack. Find five things you’re having trouble getting started on. Write them down. For 10 minutes focus on the first, then two minutes of break. Go down the list and repeat for each item. You can definitely focus on one thing for 10 minutes! In an hour you will have unstuck yourself on five things. Try it and experience the magic for yourself.

How to time?

I use a little Mac add-on called Meridian Alinof TimerPro so I can easily start timers. A little handheld kitchen timer would also do it. The bottom line is you need something that’s going to alert you so you don’t need to check a clock to see if time is up. Looking at a clock totally defeats the goal of focus.

#3 Put it on the calendar

Use a day planner or calendar software to plan your day. When in doubt or feeling adrift, refer back to the calendar. There’s something powerful about an external source telling you it’s time to do X. For example: it’s 2:08 and the calendar says I’m supposed to write my newsletter from 2–2:30 so that’s what I’m doing. If using software you can also set up reminders to pop up on your screen.
 
Now go forth and produce!