﻿Day 4

Subject: Task too daunting, [firstname]? Here’s the solution.

Hi [firstname],

I want to let you into a secret.  I used to be a chronic procrastinator. Just like you, I used to put things off until the last minute.  Unlike my college friend, my procrastination was passive NOT active.  However, I knew that if I put off writing my own term paper until the last minute I’d almost certainly flunk.

The truth was… 

The main reason I used to procrastinate was because I found some tasks (like writing a term paper) just too daunting. It wasn’t just a case of not wanting to begin, it was more a case of “rabbit in the headlights” inertia.

Then somebody told me the solution: Break things down.

Break large tasks down into baby steps, then things aren't so daunting.

If you’ve set your goals by working back from your goal to now (like we talked about yesterday) then you’ll know what steps you need to take. If you treat each step like a separate task and a separate goal, it makes things much easier. Now you have lots of little things to do instead of one big thing. Because each task is a simple one that can be easily accomplished, there’s no need to put it off.

OK, right now you’re probably thinking: Fine, but what if the thing I need to do IS just one big task – like writing a term paper or filling in your tax form?
 
In those instances, simply work in short 15-20 minute intervals then take a break.  During that time you can get up, walk around, make a cup of coffee, check social media for five minutes or so – no longer, though.  Then get back to work feeling refreshed.

If you’re using a Windows computer, you can get free software called Workrave (http://www.workrave.org/) that prompts you to take frequent breaks. It’s designed to stop you getting RSI, but can be used for other purposes, too.

Warmly,

[Your Name]

PS. To make things easier, I’ve broken my procrastination to prosperity guide down into chapters. Start reading them here: [link to sales page].
