Battling Procrastination: Master Your Time as an Artist

Time and money – these two factors often feel like the biggest barriers to success. If only we had more time, we could invest in developing our craft. If only we had more money, we could outsource tasks to free up our schedules. But the truth is, we all have the same 24 hours in a day. The key lies in how we choose to use that time.

As artists and entrepreneurs, it’s common to feel overwhelmed by our to-do lists. Whether you're managing your creative career or running a business, it can feel like there are endless tasks competing for your attention. The challenge is finding what works for you.

Know When You Do Your Best Work

One of the most effective ways to overcome procrastination is to identify your natural rhythms. Are you a morning person, or do your creative juices flow best late at night? Understanding your patterns can help you schedule your most important tasks when your energy levels are highest.

As Mark Twain famously said, "If it’s your job to eat a frog, it’s best to do it first thing in the morning." Tackling your biggest or most dreaded task at the start of the day clears the way for smoother productivity. By facing your "frogs" head-on, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment that motivates you to keep going.

Recognize Procrastination for What It Is

Procrastination isn’t just about avoiding work; it’s often rooted in boredom, fatigue, or the overwhelming nature of a task. Think of it as a tree with roots in these emotions. Add in distractions like social media or Netflix, and suddenly, a quick break turns into hours of unproductive scrolling.

To combat this, it’s essential to:

1. Recognize when you're procrastinating.

2. Identify what’s causing it – are you bored, tired, or stuck?

3. Create a plan to move forward, even if it’s just small steps.

Simple Strategies to Beat Procrastination

1. Turn Tasks into a Game
   Set mini-goals for yourself, like, "If I finish this by 2 PM, I’ll reward myself with a coffee break." By creating a sense of challenge, you turn work into something engaging.

2. Use a Timer
   Try the Pomodoro technique: work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. This method keeps you focused without feeling overwhelmed by long stretches of time.

3. Eliminate Distractions
   Turn off notifications, log out of social media, and create a workspace free from interruptions. If you’re working on a big project, block out dedicated time and let others know you’re unavailable.

4. Break Down Overwhelming Tasks
   If a task feels too big, break it into smaller, manageable steps. For example, instead of "write a report," start with "outline the main points" or "draft the introduction."

Find What Works for You

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to productivity. Experiment with different time management techniques to see what fits your lifestyle and working style. Some days, you’ll need structure; other days, a more flexible approach might work better.

The key is to stay consistent and adapt when necessary. By taking control of your time and recognizing procrastination as a challenge you can overcome, you’ll unlock greater productivity and balance in your creative life.

Happy "frog-eating"!