Don’t Wait! Give Up Procrastination Now!

If you’re still thinking about making a New Year’s Resolution, then you’re probably a candidate for giving up procrastination. Procrastination is a major source of stress and distraction in many people’s lives. We build things up in our minds until they seem overwhelming. It’s difficult to relax, to focus, to sleep, to be good colleagues or family members, or to do anything else when we’re worried about the 100 things on our ever-growing to-do list.

But the truth is the gnawing anticipation of what’s involved in the performance of a task is often far worse than the actual performance of the task. Often, nothing reduces stress more than simply doing what needs to done.

Giving up procrastination won’t just reduce your stress; it can also help you advance your career. A reputation for reliability is key to success. Procrastinators may get the job done at the 11th hour, but they cause a lot of angst to themselves and to others in the process.

Remember too that certain career building elements just can’t wait until the 11th hour. Nurture your network now—or it won’t be there when you’re looking for advancement or expert advice. Think through your personal and career goals now—or you won’t know what type of job suits you and your needs best when presented with opportunities later. Build relationships with recruiters and key contacts now—or they won’t know to call you first when your dream job suddenly becomes available. Update your resume now—or it won’t be in good order when you’re asked to fax it over immediately.

Make 2012 the year you separate what can wait from what can’t wait. Make 2012 the year you go from thinking about acting to acting. Start now!