Sometimes procrastination can get the best of us. It can become paralyzing at work if it gets too much. This can spell disaster for hardworking project team members. What is procrastination and why does it seem to be so common in some people?
Procrastinating – What is It?
The typical definition of procrastination is “the action of delaying or postponing something.” This “something” refers to an important task that is not as desirable as other more interesting-at-the-moment tasks, or easy and enjoyable activities. Procrastination, which is the deliberate and unnecessary act of delaying or putting off something despite knowing that there are negative consequences to doing so, can be defined as “the unintended and deliberate act of delaying/postponing something.”
People who are anxious about completing an unavoidable task or fear of failure are known as procrastinators. To avoid failure, they procrastinate. They may take a long lunch break, or use social media to distract themselves. Although it temporarily makes them feel better it eventually gets in the way of reality.
Continue reading: Managing toxic workplace behaviors
Recognizing Signs that a Project Team is Procrastinating
Procrastination is not to be confused with lazy, and can lead to the destruction of a project, reputation, or even a job. It can be a time-saver to identify and address this avoidance behavior early on. It could be one person or a group of people who struggle with avoidance. These signs can be identified by a project manager to identify a procrastinator in a project team.
Having difficulty setting, achieving, and being unclear about their goals
Signs of being overwhelmed by their work
Experiencing difficulty concentrating
Negative beliefs and pushing back on responsibilities
Experiencing ongoing personal problems
Boredom can be seen as a sign of boredom.
Participating in or not attending group discussions
Lateness or skipping meetings
How to approach a team member who procrastinates
If you notice that a member of your team is procrastinating because they are showing one or more signs, you can reduce the impact by speaking early with them in a discrete and respectful manner. You can help them by breaking down tasks, emphasizing the meaning, and regularly checking in on the progress of work.
Give support and guidance to help them succeed. Be clear about their timing. To ensure that they are a good match for their interests and abilities, review the tasks in advance. Celebrate successes to build motivation.
Tips for Project Managers on Dealing with Procrastination
To create a steady stream, break down large tasks into smaller, more manageable phases or chunks.
You should set time frames for tasks. Be clear about what you are doing and what support is available.
Regular meetings to review progress and status.
Participate: Get involved in task details to understand what is being accomplished and when.
Motivate: Recognize achievements and make improvements and reward them.
Read more: Establishing Work Culture for Hybrid Workplaces
What to do if you’re the only one procrastinating
Project managers can also be affected by procrastination. If you feel this way, identify the reasons you are choosing to do other things than your work. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Bored? Unsure? Are you feeling burnt out?
Procrastination can be avoided and time management improved. Here are some ways to reduce procrastination and avoid it in your work.
Get organized and create a plan to complete your work. You can also apply this strategy to other things that may get in the way of your work.
Prioritize and reprioritize your most important items as often as necessary to ensure that you get them done first.
Create a space and routine that is relaxing and frees you from distractions.
