Stop procrastinating now!

1. Try to think of large, complicated or time-consuming project as a series of small, manageable parts. Smaller tasks are attractive because they are short, easy and produce immediate gratification. Keep in mind that all projects, no matter how massive, are only the sum of a series of small parts.

2. Make a voluntary commitment to someone else. Allowing others to become involved in your efforts by reviewing your progress, helping you set deadlines or evaluating your results can be very helpful. Your concerns, fears and anxieties become secondary to fulfilling the expectations of the people you respect and trust.

3. Reward yourself for good behaviour. Punishing yourself for faffing about is not nearly as effective. Treat yourself at milestones in the process, not just at the completion. Rewards can be as simple as making yourself a cup of coffee or visiting friends. If you regularly work overtime, go home on time, or take a lunch break instead of eating in a rush at your desk.

4. When you find yourself blocked or simply can’t get going, ask yourself, 'Is there anything, no matter how small, that I am willing to do?' When you find that small thing, you are no longer procrastinating. Easy, eh?