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Many of you may remember when I wrote here about my procrastination. Since then I have read the book by Rory Vaden, Taking the Stairs: 7 Steps to Achieving True Success. In part, he sheds light on procrastination that was unknown to me before. I had planned to post a review of this book but being the procrastinator that I am, it didn’t happen. Anyways, I probably wouldn’t have done it justice so I’ll let you read Vaden’s own review, here. But WAIT!!! - don’t run off yet - finish reading what I have to say here first, OK?

“If it weren’t for the last minute, I’d get nothing done.” ~ Unknown

According to Vaden, there are three basic types of procrastination:

1. Classic procrastination – consciously delaying what we know we should be doing.
2. Creative avoidance – unconsciously filling the day with menial work to where we end up getting busy just being busy.
3. Priority dilution – taking things that are urgent and inappropriately making them important.

I have determined which of the three fits me and will focus my post on it. Do you see yourself in one of the above?

Classic procrastination

Yes, I am this type. But I’ve got to admit that I’m guilty of being number 3 as well.  So, I never thought of myself as being a perfectionist but after reading Vaden’s book I can say that I am. He gave some examples of this type: you’re efficient at work but at home let bills pile up until they’re out of control; your finances may be in order but you find ways for not cleaning the house; or you have everything in order but you can’t get yourself to the gym even though you know you need to go. Do you see yourself yet? Ok, ok, ok…I’m just trying to help you out here…

“Physician, heal thyself“ from the Book of Luke

I struggle so much in getting and maintaining balance at home. It becomes overwhelming most of the time. I end up accomplishing little bits here and there. Not finishing the task like I had original planned to do. The contrast between my home life and my work life just blows my mind. Thanks to Vaden, I now know what I need to do.

“Perfectionism is one of the most common reasons people procrastinate, and we’ve all done it at some point.”  ~ Rory Vaden

Focus on habits, not results

I have great work habits at my paying job. I can “get ‘er done”,  as they say. But when it comes time for me to take care of details and important stuff at home, I’m an epic FAILURE. Since reading Vaden’s book, I’ve started noticing that I am result-oriented at home. For example, before I start cleaning I see the whole place spotless and clutter-free afterwards. I set time limits in my mind about when I want to see things done. And of course when time comes and I’ve got diddly done, I mentally beat myself up. I feel as if I’m walking around with a big F on my forehead for the rest of the day. I focus so much on the failed outcome that I don’t give myself the appreciation for just “doing”.

Somehow I must transfer my good work habits from the job to home. Yes - this will be my FOCUS!! – stop trying for perfectionism and looking for instant results. I’ll concentrate on putting one foot in front of the other, doing each task as if I’m getting paid for it. I may not see any monetary gain in this practice but that’s ok. I need to establish those good habits that I have on the job here at home, as well, in order to become the successful well-rounded person I want to be.

Now, let me get back to you, again. If you have a problem with getting things done and want to know how to become more successful in your own life, run off and read Vaden’s book. I hope you like it and find it helpful. Come back here and leave your comments after reading it, ok?

Disclaimer: I am not getting paid for this recommendation.