Articulate and write down your personal goals. Post them on your door, mirror, notebook--so you'll see them frequently.
Be sure the task you think you "should" do is one that is really important to you, that leads to your goal. If your actions aren't in line with your intentions, perhaps you should change your intentions: "I said I'd study history now, but it's more important to rest after my test today. I'll plan to do it tomorrow morning."
MANAGE YOUR TIME EFFECTIVELY
If you don't know how to manage your time, learn. Consult a counselor, attend a time management workshop, take a course—College Success (ED 100) and Study Techniques (RDG 110) both include self management skills. WWCC also offers Stress Management (HE240) and Career Planning (ED135) courses, which can help you establish goals and reduce stress.
Break your goal up into little parts. Write out and list the steps you must take to accomplish your goal.
Write out a plan for yourself. Make a schedule.
Establish a regular time each day to work toward your goal. Get out of a disorganized lifestyle and make working toward your goal part of your routine.
Organize your environment, complete with the tools you'll need, so it's conducive to working. Or...move yourself to an environment which is conducive to working.
If you aren't sure how to reach your goal, learn. For example, if you aren't clear about an assignment, plan to consult with your professor. Build this appointment into your schedule.
Start early. Build procrastination time into your schedule. Call it "creative leisure."
Start small and easily. Build gradually.
CHANGE YOUR ATTITUDE
Do you feel that the world is too difficult? That you are inadequate to meet its challenges? That you cannot function without a lot of approval? Are you frustrated with the limitations of others? Expect nothing less of yourself and others than perfection? Convinced that disaster hinges on your actions? ...These are immobilizing, self-defeating, avoidance-producing attitudes and beliefs. Recognize them as such, and use them only to the extent that they are helpful.
Don't indulge them and don't believe them! Replace them with self-enhancing beliefs and attitudes.
Remind yourself of the emotional and physical consequences of procrastination. Then remind yourself of the consequences of not procrastinating.
Concentrate on little bits and pieces of your project; don't think "all or nothing."
For a day, pretend that you are a well-organized non-procrastinator. Imagine how you would think and behave. Then behave and think that way...even if only for a few minutes at a time.
