The Man Cave on…Creativity and Procrastination
Productivity – the ability to get things done, and the subsequent feeling of accomplishment and advancement – is directly linked to happiness.
One mantra I have always embraced, and share with new writers who feel overwhelmed, is simply “Words to paper.”
While many prolific authors may deliberate and ruminate before starting a book or a new chapter, I tackle procrastination and boost my productivity with this straightforward mindset.
Get Going
Just get going. It doesn’t have to be perfect or polished. I don’t obsess over the initial draft. In fact, I often look back and realize that my first attempts may be less than stellar. However, if the task at hand is something you can improve upon later, then simply getting started can be the most productive approach.
If you find yourself stuck, don’t linger too long. Move on to the next part or task that flows more easily, and revisit the challenging area later. Think of it like sculpting: the longer you stare at a shapeless block, the longer it remains unformed. To break through that mental block, just begin, which is often the hardest step.
I’ve noticed a strong connection between perfectionism and procrastination. Unreasonable standards can render our goals unattainable. Don’t let the fear of flaw or failure hold you back and keep you on the sidelines.
Why is it crucial to get going? Because productivity – the ability to accomplish tasks and the resulting feeling of achievement – is directly linked to happiness. Research suggests that there is a positive correlation between productivity and happiness. They influence each other: a positive mood can enhance productivity, and those who feel accomplished are more likely to experience happiness and satisfaction.
Change Your Mind!
A shift in perspective and a positive mindset can trigger creative thinking, alleviate feelings of fatigue and burnout, and facilitate problem-solving. If you’re feeling stuck, it might not be the task itself that needs rethinking – it could be your mindset.
This positive mindset has a contagious effect. When you’re productive in writing one book, painting one portrait, or completing a work project, you’re more likely to find a rhythm and continue. And that rhythm helps you master your craft.
When it comes to overcoming procrastination, I find several tactics helpful: a big cup of coffee, a refreshing swim, a brief afternoon nap, or even a break for dinner and the news before diving back in. Sometimes, simply looking at a photo of my kids or grandkids reminds me of why I do what I do. Taking a moment to see the bigger picture can be incredibly motivating.
Top Tips
Here are my top tips for tackling procrastination:
- Words to paper. Or in other words, just get going. It doesn’t have to be perfect; just start.
- Step away, take a break, and come back. If you’re stuck, switch gears, do something different, get out of the house or office, and then return to the task at hand.
- Draw inspiration from others. You don’t have to shoulder the burden of feeling stuck alone. Share your thoughts with a family member or friend; another perspective can help you break through.
- You don’t have to do it all. This has become a mantra for me. With my daughter Kristin juggling a demanding corporate role, living abroad, and raising two young kids, I remind her, “You can’t do it all.” This perspective often helps her feel less overwhelmed and more in control.
YOUR TURN
How do you handle procrastination with creative projects – or any project? Share your tips in the comments!
Michael Tougias is a NY Times Bestselling Author of many books including No Will Set You Free and In Deep Water: A True Story of Sharks, Survival and Courage.
Productivity – the ability to get things done, and the subsequent feeling of accomplishment and advancement – is directly linked to happiness.
One mantra I have always embraced, and share with new writers who feel overwhelmed, is simply “Words to paper.”
While many prolific authors may deliberate and ruminate before starting a book or a new chapter, I tackle procrastination and boost my productivity with this straightforward mindset.
Get Going
Just get going. It doesn’t have to be perfect or polished. I don’t obsess over the initial draft. In fact, I often look back and realize that my first attempts may be less than stellar. However, if the task at hand is something you can improve upon later, then simply getting started can be the most productive approach.
If you find yourself stuck, don’t linger too long. Move on to the next part or task that flows more easily, and revisit the challenging area later. Think of it like sculpting: the longer you stare at a shapeless block, the longer it remains unformed. To break through that mental block, just begin, which is often the hardest step.
I’ve noticed a strong connection between perfectionism and procrastination. Unreasonable standards can render our goals unattainable. Don’t let the fear of flaw or failure hold you back and keep you on the sidelines.
Why is it crucial to get going? Because productivity – the ability to accomplish tasks and the resulting feeling of achievement – is directly linked to happiness. Research suggests that there is a positive correlation between productivity and happiness. They influence each other: a positive mood can enhance productivity, and those who feel accomplished are more likely to experience happiness and satisfaction.
Change Your Mind!
A shift in perspective and a positive mindset can trigger creative thinking, alleviate feelings of fatigue and burnout, and facilitate problem-solving. If you’re feeling stuck, it might not be the task itself that needs rethinking – it could be your mindset.
This positive mindset has a contagious effect. When you’re productive in writing one book, painting one portrait, or completing a work project, you’re more likely to find a rhythm and continue. And that rhythm helps you master your craft.
When it comes to overcoming procrastination, I find several tactics helpful: a big cup of coffee, a refreshing swim, a brief afternoon nap, or even a break for dinner and the news before diving back in. Sometimes, simply looking at a photo of my kids or grandkids reminds me of why I do what I do. Taking a moment to see the bigger picture can be incredibly motivating.
Top Tips
Here are my top tips for tackling procrastination:
- Words to paper. Or in other words, just get going. It doesn’t have to be perfect; just start.
- Step away, take a break, and come back. If you’re stuck, switch gears, do something different, get out of the house or office, and then return to the task at hand.
- Draw inspiration from others. You don’t have to shoulder the burden of feeling stuck alone. Share your thoughts with a family member or friend; another perspective can help you break through.
- You don’t have to do it all. This has become a mantra for me. With my daughter Kristin juggling a demanding corporate role, living abroad, and raising two young kids, I remind her, “You can’t do it all.” This perspective often helps her feel less overwhelmed and more in control.
YOUR TURN
How do you handle procrastination with creative projects – or any project? Share your tips in the comments!
Michael Tougias is a NY Times Bestselling Author of many books including No Will Set You Free and In Deep Water: A True Story of Sharks, Survival and Courage.
