I’m told that perfectionists tend to achieve less and have more stress than other folks.
The struggle is real.
In addition, perfectionists are more prone to procrastination. Because they worry about not doing things right, they delay starting or finishing. They often do nothing at all.
If this sounds familiar, take heart. Most (all?) accomplished people like you and me struggle with these issues, at least some of the time.
But there’s hope.
Sometimes, when I find myself procrastinating, I tackle some of the easy parts first. As you check off items on the punch list, you build confidence and momentum. Continuing is easier than a cold start.
I might review my notes, make a list of ideas, or gather up my research. I might draft some language or brainstorm some of my options.
When I don’t feel like going on my walk, putting on my walking shorts takes me a step closer to getting out the door.
Sometimes, I do the hard things first. I eat those frogs. Once I get something difficult or intimidating out of the way, the rest is much easier.
While starting is the hardest part, finishing is the most important.
How do you finish things you’re having trouble finishing? I don’t know, I’m still working on that.
Joking aside, one thing I do is try not to “break the chain”. I have an app for tracking my daily walking. It gives me visible feedback about my progress (and a little fanfare when I hit the daily goal). What can I say, it helps.
Another thing I do to finish is to focus on the process, not the outcome. With writing, for example, I don’t dwell on word count, I just make sure I do the work every day.
I also bribe myself. I promise to reward myself as soon as I finish things. For example, when I finish this, I’m going to play around with a new app I just downloaded.
Okay, as soon as I get back from my walk.
