9 Proven Methods To Beat Procrastination This Year

Just do it… tomorrow. Next week. Next month. Next year. Sounds familiar? The bitter truth is that we all procrastinate. We blame it on the work overload, personal issues, bad bosses, you name it. But there is a way to break the loop.

If your 2025 resolution is to beat procrastination, read on. Still, you don’t have to go hard on yourself. There is no need to wake up and run ten kilometers straight. No need to take on tasks you can’t accomplish. There is a better, milder way to fight postponing work—and life.

This article will advise on proven methods to fight procrastination and stay productive next year. Core idea? Go easy on yourself. Let’s look at what procrastination is, how it prevents your growth, and what you can do about it—right now.

What is Procrastination—and How it Hinders your Growth

Procrastination is like standing on the side of the pool, getting ready to jump, but never actually doing so.

It’s constantly delaying tasks, postponing them, and missing deadlines for several reasons. Those could be fear, unhealthy perfectionism, and guilt. When you procrastinate, you’ll likely get in the loop and miss great opportunities ahead of you. Procrastination decreases your self-confidence, increases stress and anxiety, and lowers self-discipline.

However, some forms of procrastination are acceptable—you must maintain a sacred balance.

Let’s look at the tips on beating procrastination.

You Are Not Alone: Famous Procrastinators

When struggling with procrastination, it is easy to fall into a self-deprecating pattern, thinking that this issue might hold you back from success. But many famous and successful people are, in fact, stellar procrastinators, fighting the same battles.

Check this out: J. K. Rowling, Bill Clinton, Nassim Taleb, and even Steve Jobs—all of these revolutionary personalities have struggled with procrastination but still made it.

So, if you are dealing with procrastination, take it easy; you are in good company.

Fighting Procrastination: 9 Steps to Try Now

The key to dealing with procrastination lies in accepting it. Here’s what you can do to be more productive in the upcoming year:

Step 1. Analyze why you Procrastinate

We already talked about it: we all procrastinate. And to some extent, it’s perfectly normal. But if you’re putting away tasks too often, there might be a problem.

So, why do you procrastinate? Are you tired? Does the task seem too complicated? Maybe you’re not getting enough peer support at work. Try to understand the root cause of the problem. And there come solutions: get some rest, Google the task again, or ask your colleagues to support you.

Step 2. Understand your Feelings

Some people procrastinate due to the fear of failure or perfectionism. But you’re not a machine. You’re a living human with feelings, moods, and good and bad days. Try to let it go—you got this.

Don’t be afraid to try dedicated apps to track how you feel. Liven can become your perfect companion, helping you to cultivate selfhood.

Step 3. Eat the Frog

No need to harm the little froggie. This method means you complete the most challenging task right after you wake up and do your morning rituals. As you start the day, you’ll likely feel more energetic and enthusiastic, so get to work. Take the task you fear the most. Break it down into smaller tasks. And start working.

After that, you can break down the steps on your list into smaller ones. Once you’re done, you’ll be amazed by how easy your day goes!

Step 4. Work out More

Working out could be a powerful tool for finally beating your procrastination. Regular physical training can release large amounts of endorphins, boosting your energy levels and helping you stay productive. Plus, sports contribute to our motivation, discipline, and dedication—a badly needed skill for getting a job done at work.

Step 5. Delegate Stuff

And this applies to every part of your life, not just jobs. Can you ask someone to do the laundry for you? Walk your dog? Cook dinner? So you have the time to focus on what matters to you.

If you delegate your work, create a task for your colleagues with all details on what needs to be done. Answer their question, but don’t micromanage. Remember to thank your peers for helping you out.

Step 6. Put on Some Music

We all have tracks that put us in the zone. Why not create a good mood for yourself? Whether it’s techno, hip-hop, or even folk—put on some great tunes to get the work vibe. Some people create their gym playlists—and the one for work is a good idea, too.

Do you feel like dancing? Then dance! It’s proven that getting some moves can add up to your overall energy. Ask your friends to recommend lovely songs, or go to YouTube. There are lots of playlists that are set to get you in the do-it mood.

Step 7. Be Careful with Snacks

When procrastinating, you may occasionally feel the need to snack. But wait: Are you hungry or just bored? Many people snack on pizzas, unhealthy soft drinks, and chocolate. The result? A rush of sugar to the blood may lead to a temporary boost of energy but will do your body no good in the long run.

Try this: snack on healthy meals like carrots, nuts, or green tea with honey. Once you’ve finished, reward yourself with a snack, but don’t overeat.

Step 8. Go Easy on Yourself

The most important of them all. Are you doing what you love, or is it just money? Can you enjoy what you do? Maybe it’s time to rethink your life priorities.

Choose a job that you genuinely like. Stay compassionate to yourself as you would do to your best friends. Don’t cultivate the feeling of shame even if you procrastinate today. Love yourself—it’s all that matters.

Step 9. Just Enjoy Life

Living is a true blessing, and you must learn how to enjoy it. Yes, learn, we mean it.

Get a good night’s sleep. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and stay hydrated. Meditate. Have fun with some friends. Enjoy your hobby. Once you start leading a fulfilled life, you’ll also feel less inclined to procrastinate. Go out and live it to the fullest.

Bookmark these ideas for a more productive, hustle-free 2025.