6 Positive Emotions That Drive Growth & Leadership

How to beat procrastination?

Let’s try “Motivational Interviewing.”
It’s based on asking ourselves powerful questions.

We’re gonna ask ourselves 2 questions for each of the 5 key points.

So we’ll be able to:
→    Figure out what’s going on inside us
→    Tackle procrastination
→    And get moving
Let’s dive in!

1.    Reflect on Your Feelings

First, we need to reflect on our feelings.

Ask yourself:
→    What task am I putting off?
→    How do I feel when I think about this task?

Write down your answers.

For example, you might write:
→    I keep putting off that project report
→    I feel stressed and overwhelmed every time I think about it

2.    Identify Your Reasons

Now, let’s explore why you’re avoiding these tasks — your barriers.

Ask yourself:
→    What’s making me put this off?
→    Are there any fears or concerns that come to mind?
For example, you might write:
→    I’m worried it won’t be good enough
or
→    I don’t know where to start

3.    Explore Your Why
Now, think about why you wanna get this task done.
Ask yourself:
→    Why do I wanna complete this task?
→    What will happen if I do it? What will happen if I don’t?
For example, you might say:
→    Finishing the report will help my team move forward, and I’ll feel accomplished
→    If I don’t, the deadline will pass, and I’ll let my team down

4.    Set a Small Goal

Now, let’s turn this into action.
Set a small goal for yourself.
Keep it simple so it feels manageable.

Ask yourself:
→    What’s one small step I can take today?
→    How will I feel once I complete this step?
For example, you might decide:
→    I’ll spend just 15 minutes today brainstorming ideas for the report

5.    Affirm Your Strengths

Now, before you finish, remind yourself of your strengths.
You know your unique strengths, right? 🙂
Great!

Reminding yourself of them will help you find motivation.

So ask yourself:
→    What have I done before that I’m proud of?
→    What skills do I have that can help me with this task?
For example, you might write:
→    I’m good at organizing my thoughts
→    I’ve written reports successfully before