The ability to get things done is a quality that we all need. Unfortunately, procrastination, or the tendency to delay tasks, is an ability at which many of us excel. It is a problem that plagues society because unless things get done, nothing happens.

Getting it done now.

The simplest tool that I have found which helps me to get things done is a TO DO list. Simply write down the tasks that need to be done, either that day or week, and don’t stop until they are done. People will say, “It’s not that easy,” and they will think of a hundred reasons to put things off. These excuses are what makes up procrastination and procrastination is the single biggest factor in failure.

A winner will find ways to get things done. A loser will find reasons for not doing things. I have come across many people who put a lot of effort into finding reasons for not getting something done. If only they had put half of that energy into the project, it would have been completed successfully.

Common reasons for procrastination.

1. I have no time

This is a very common reason and it tends to be the biggest excuse used for not getting things done. Most people miraculously find the time to watch their favorite TV shows, yet they can’t find the time to fix a leaky tap or to stitch a button to their shirt. The lack of time excuse is just that — it’s an excuse not to do something.

2. I don’t like doing that

Regrettably, in life there are things we have to do that we don’t like doing. Putting these things off will not make them vanish. If something needs doing, then do it now and get it finished. I find that it is better to do the worst jobs first and leave the best jobs until last. That way there’s something to look forward to.

3. I am overwhelmed

I’ve seen people who are overwhelmed. They have good intentions and try to do lots of things at once. Unfortunately, they normally end up doing nothing except writing very long TO DO lists, full of complicated tasks.

Be realistic in what you can achieve. If you have your TO DO list at hand and it is already full, then say, “No!” to anything more. When making a TO DO list, cut large tasks down into smaller chunks. Work to complete all the parts of the larger task before moving on to something else.

4. I just can’t concentrate

Constant distractions do make tasks harder to finish. It may be imperative to schedule tasks that require concentration for quiet times. If your office is busy, then come in early or stay late when it is quieter, so that you can concentrate. Turn off the telephone. Don’t watch the television when you’re supposed to be getting a job done. Do whatever it takes to create an atmosphere where you can focus.

5. Hoping will not make a task vanish

There may be a one in a 1,000 chance that your dream will come true and the task will vanish. For example, your boss might not turn up at all so you wouldn’t need to submit the business plan on Monday. There’s no way you can live your life like this. It’s gambling. Remember that you are in charge of your life and acting like a coward is not the right way forward.

6. It’s not due yet

It’s amazing how quickly due dates come around. Why not do it now? Missing a due date can lead to lots of extra work. Forget to pay the phone bill and the line is cut. Getting it reconnected is a hassle. Doing all your chores as soon as possible means that you’ll be ahead of the game.

7. I need a cigarette

No one needs a cigarette. Keep the packet in your pocket. Focus and make the call or finish the job. You’ll be healthier and happier when you’re through.

8. It’s too late for today

This is a classic excuse, used by lazy sales-people especially on a Thursday afternoon. I have done some excellent deals outside of normal business hours. Many supervisors stay late. Drop by a company after the secretary has gone home and you might have more of a chance to speak to the boss directly. Many smart businessmen either open their shops early or stay late to attract a few extra customers.

9. I work best under pressure

This is an interesting reason. There is some truth to it because many people only act when they are desperate or forced. Nevertheless, I don’t believe that working like this all the time is good for the body or the spirit. If you prefer to work under pressure, then set your deadlines earlier than required so you have time for emergencies. Set your watch 15 minutes fast. You’ll soon forget that it’s running ahead, and maybe you’ll get done on time for a change.

10. I don’t know how to do it

This is not a legitimate reason to put something off. Seek advice. Read the manual. Call a helpline. Once you understand how to get them done, it’s amazing how many tasks, which might have looked complicated and tedious, turn out to be simple and enjoyable. Even if a task ends up being truly awful, at least you’ll be able to comfort yourself in the knowledge that your experience will help you get it done much faster next time.

11. It may not work

You will only find out if you try. Remember too, that if you start with a negative outlook, you are reducing your chances of making it work. The desire to succeed plays an important role in providing impetus for doing things right.

12. I keep forgetting. I really meant to do it

You might tell that to yourself. Believe me, the things that are important we usually remember. If you are genuinely forgetting important tasks then write notes to yourself, or ask people to remind you. Chances are that you are forgetting because something in your subconscious mind is working against you. Sometimes we get in the habit of forgetting. Forgetting takes less work than remembering. Some people may benefit from using a computer or a handheld PDA programmed with diary software to jog their memory at the right time.

13. If I do it now they’ll just give me something else to do

I met someone recently who said this to me. After a brief discussion it was clear that he hated his job and was just coasting by. If you are saying similar things to yourself, then it is time to change jobs. By performing below your potential, you are not helping your employer and you are not creating a happy, rewarding life for yourself.

14. I’ll wait until after Ramadan, the first of the month, or the New Year

I have found that without fail, there really is no time like the present. If you have genuinely decided to do something, then start TODAY. Be honest with yourself. Setting a delayed time to start something like a diet will not be very helpful. Unless your aim is time bound and is possible only within a certain calendar month, postponing may just be a step toward failure.

Summary: Procrastination is a big factor in why people just don’t get anywhere. If you truly want to be a winner in life, then learn to get things done. Winners make things happen and get things done. Losers watch things happen and wonder what happened. You choose!