Why Don't We Stop Procrastinating?

Procrastinate To delay doing something since you feel bored. Let's play some mind games — Have you ever wondered why gyms/fitness centers have huge mirrors hanging on the walls?

Reflective Motivation

You go to a textile retail outlet, try some clothes in the trial room, watch yourself in the mirror, and feel happy with the way you look – you buy those clothes. You go to beauty parlors, constantly keep looking at your reflection in the mirror, and feel happy with the new hairstyle or facial. You enjoy looking pretty good. But why mirrors in the gym?

You watch yourself in the mirror after a heavy workout. You look drained, weak, and tired. Your makeup is gone. You keep sweating constantly. You're dehydrated, hungry, and craving some water. Your lips are dry, your eyes are weary, and your hair is disheveled. Your clothes have sweat marks and wet stains. There is not a single valid reason that makes you look beautiful — yet, you feel good watching yourself in the mirror while working out.

Feeling Good Through Accomplishment

What makes you feel good — a sense of accomplishment. You're working on something that's going to make you look better and feel good. You feel your time is spent entirely and usefully for yourself to stay healthy and fit. You recall all the sufferings you went through while being unhealthy — and that you're here like a phoenix getting healthier in every attempt of workouts. This is what you wanted to be, and you're almost there, and that keeps inspiring you to hit the gym consistently.

Something very simple — such as a mirror — can outsmart all self-help books and motivational videos to help you feel good and healthy. All you have to do is — ?find out where your mirror is?. Wondering how to do that? Let's dive into the reasons why people procrastinate and how to stop it.

Understanding Procrastination

People procrastinate not because they're stupid, lazy, unhealthy, or lack motivation. People procrastinate because they haven't yet identified their true potential. They're misled or misguided with wrong assumptions. They channel their energy and time in the wrong direction — just like pouring water into a bucket with a hole. Frustration builds up, and they keep procrastinating.

Sachin Tendulkar, celebrated as the greatest cricketer on earth, needed a coach to identify his potential and channel his energy in the right direction, with minimal effort. He was open to criticism and constantly kept learning from his mistakes. Tendulkar didn't train for years to master cricket — he already had the potential of a top-class cricketer, and he realized and consistently utilized it. ?Identifying one's true potential? is the key. Once you know you can, you won't feel bored doing it.

Strategies to Stop Procrastinating

Here are some practical strategies to overcome procrastination:

Bribe Yourself

The world's fastest man, Usain Bolt, took years of training each day to cross 100 meters in a few seconds. He's just a normal human being, after all. He knew his potential — he knew he could run fast, but how fast is the question.

So, to push his boundaries, break his comfort zone, his coach used to bribe him. If he worked harder than yesterday and performed better, he could have some chicken nuggets for lunch. Yes, chicken nuggets are Bolt's favorite food. So his coach allowed him to have it only if he did better than yesterday.

Don't depend on motivational speakers, videos, and motivational songs. They will make you feel good but are like the sweetness in bubble gum — it will soon vanish. If you genuinely want to stop procrastinating, cheat yourself with small appreciations, rewards, and bribes. These are called ?mind games? — to make yourself believe that you truly deserve it.

Thomas Edison used to have his favorite food if he spent longer hours in the lab. Parents allow TV time if kids complete their homework. There is an ultimate joy in getting a small reward for working hard without procrastinating — so go for it!

Visualization for Success

Visualization plays a crucial role in overcoming procrastination. Imagine the feeling of accomplishment, the joy of achieving your goals, and the satisfaction of not procrastinating. Visualization can be a powerful tool to motivate yourself and stay focused.

Create a Routine and Set Goals

Establish a routine and set both short-term and long-term goals. Having a plan and clear objectives can help you stay on track and reduce procrastination. Celebrate small successes along the way, and progressively build confidence.

Find Your Personal Mirror

Just like the gym mirror, finding your personal mirror can be an empowering tool. It could be a vision board, a journal, or a list of achievements that remind you of your potential and progress. Each time you see your mirror, remind yourself of the sense of accomplishment and keep the motivation alive.

Conclusion

Procrastination can be a daunting challenge, but with the right mindset and strategies, it's possible to overcome it. Understanding why we procrastinate and implementing practical solutions can make a significant difference. Find your personal mirror, set goals, and reward yourself. Remember, it's all about that sense of accomplishment and self-belief.