1. Identify the triggers that are causing you to procrastinate.

Is it feeling overwhelmed from looking at all of the work that needs to be done?
Is it a lack of motivation? The fear that you won't succeed and will fall short, never meeting your goals or expectations?

Once you identify the triggers to procrastination for yourself, then move on to tip number two.

2. Break down tasks into smaller pieces so it doesn't seem overwhelming any more.

Instead of focusing on the large task you need to complete, focus on what needs to be done next. For instance if it's a blog post that needs writing out and you're feeling lazy about getting started, then just start by coming up with your first sentence for the intro paragraph.

Breakdown tasks and take them on gradually. Start with what needs to be done next until you've completed enough work for that day. It just takes one small step at a time to conquer the larger goal in front of you.

3. Reward yourself when you complete a task.

It's important to give yourself a pat on the back when you're working hard and completing tasks. You'll feel motivated and accomplished instead of feeling like giving up because things are so difficult or overwhelming.

Rewards don't have to be anything huge, you can even reward yourself with five minutes of watching TV if that sounds good!

4. Find an incentive to get things done.

An incentive could be a personal goal that you want to complete, it could also be just having a nice clean desk without stacks of papers everywhere.

The key is finding something motivating and then telling yourself “I get this done and I can have my reward” or “If I do this one thing on the list, tomorrow will feel less hectic.”

5. Start your day a little bit earlier.

Get up at least an hour before your work day starts so you can get a head start on your tasks. This way you can have some time for leisure or relaxation later in the day!

Morning people use this strategy too – waking up early gives you time to get everything done before the day really starts and there's no need for an afternoon slump.

Productivity is not a state, it is a process, one that takes work every single day. Don't let yourself get to the point of feeling that everything is impossible. There are ways for you to stop procrastinating and work productively, and these tips will help motivate you every day!