Procrastination is defined as an action that puts something off. That is, you expend energy to avoid doing something. When you look at it like that, you can see how little sense it makes to procrastinate. That’s why fitness expert and entrepreneur Eugene Pallisco has put together this list of six strategies you can use to fight the natural tendency to delay what needs to get done.

Identify your non-negotiables

There are things in life that aren’t optional. Breathing, getting water, and taking in nutrition are great universal examples. Some more specific ones might be:

• Fulfilling your job duties
• Eating right
• Completing your exercise routine

When you decide on what missions are critical in your life, you should write those things down and post them somewhere you’ll see them often so that you can hold yourself accountable. Try not to compromise or make excuses for these things. These are must-do tasks that have to happen every day.

Finish before you start

At the end of every day, sit down in a quiet place and think. Turn off the TV, put your phone on silent, and close your eyes. Think about how you’re going to tackle tomorrow. 

What needs to get done tomorrow, and in what order? This is called finishing before you start. If you know where the finish line is before you start running, you’re more likely to run a successful race.

Build a system: make a list

Whatever it takes to organise your life, do it. Make a list of the tasks that need to be done and check them off as you go. If it helps to prep your lunches every Sunday, that’s a weekly non-negotiable in a system of organization that will keep procrastination at bay.

Don’t overthink it

Remain flexible. One of the main reasons a lot of people resist organizing their lives – whether that means writing a budget or ticking the ‘done’ box for their exercise routine – is that lists aren’t flexible. 

If life throws you a curveball, don’t panic; just flex. As long as it gets done, even if that means making a new list for tomorrow, you’ll be fine. 

Reward yourself

Celebrate your wins. Take the long view, and don’t be too hard on yourself. When you accomplish your goals, mark the occasion with something fun. While it’s best not to choose an activity that will ultimately derail your goals, you should definitely make achieving your goals fun and worthwhile to you.

Invest in good people that help you

You’re more likely to reach your goals if you’re in a community of people who believe in you and support your mission. Surround yourself with support. Life is a team sport, and you’re not going to succeed without a great team.

Combatting procrastination is definitely possible, and trying any one of these strategies may be the solution for you.

Eugene Pallisco is a fitness instructor and certified trainer in Dallas, TX, who has dedicated his life to helping his clients discover joy through movement, whether in sports training, cardio, or resistance training. Through steady hard work over time, he believes everyone can achieve great results. He also enjoys the outdoors and visiting farm-to-table restaurants.