If you're anything like me, you are a true procrastinator. It doesn't matter how much time you have in advance to complete something, you will always wait until the last minute to do it, and even then, it might not even get done. I've tried everything from buying planners, changing my sleep schedule to be a morning person (that one hurt), to overbooking myself so that I would be FORCED to do things on time. But, to no avail, I still find myself procrastinating on every little thing I do. Some would say I'm so bad, I would procrastinate my own death. If you're struggling to be productive on the things you should be doing right now, here are a few smaller tasks that can easily be done and make you feel less like you're life is spiraling out of control.
1. Do a load of laundry
I am the WORST when it comes to remembering to do my laundry. Waking up and avoiding my history paper due at midnight tonight as never seemed so easy when I have a ton of laundry that needs to get done!
2. Go for a walk
You know your physical and mental health could be better, so why not do something for yourself and go for a walk? It'll clear your head and you'll be more apt to actually doing what you're procrastinating on when you come back.
3. Take a stress nap
Napping is by far the best procrastination tool. You can't be held responsible for work that has to get done if you're snoozing the day away!
4. Try out a new recipe
I am forever sharing different dessert and meal recipes on my Facebook, but I never try them! If you're in the same boat, whip out that apron and grab your utensils, it's about to be on like Donkey Kong.
5. Catch up with an old friend
Nothing is better than avoiding everything wrong with your life by hearing about the depths and despairs of another's life. Step out of yourself and show some concern for someone else, and I'm sure you'll feel better about forgetting to do the dishes.
6. Write an Odyssey article
Okay, I'll admit it. I am totally writing this right now because it's the easiest thing to do on my long to-do list. The inspiration actually hit me when I was scrolling through Facebook, taking a "well deserved" break from making study cards for my Oceanography test on Tuesday. I decided, "well, if I'm going to procrastinate, I might as well be productive and bang out an article for this week, too."
7. Play with your pets
Dogs are always down for a party, no matter what time of day it is. Grab their favorite toy, and head outside! There's nothing more relaxing, hilarious, or freeing than watching your dog chase after the same toy 200 times in a row.
8. Call your mom
She definitely misses you, and she definitely wants to hear about what's new in your life. Give her a call and let the worries melt away. Mom's always have the best answers to life's mysteries.
9. Go shopping
But only for things you REALLY need. Like that job interview coming up? You need a new blazer! Or, you know what, you're completely out of dish soap, might add that to the list! And maybe a few decorative things for the house won't hurt too....And afterwards, you can reward yourself with a coffee stop.
10. Actually start on your long to-do list that you've been procrastinating
You heard it from me, first. Start with the easiest and least time-consuming tasks on your list. You'll be checking things off left and right and the relief will be exhilarating. Now that the small stuff is out of the way, you can tackle big projects head on and with a clear mind
