Techniques To Manage Your Time 

and Deal with Procrastination 

Not: I don't know where to begin, so I can't begin at all.

Not: I have to do EVERYTHING! Nothing less will do.

Instead: The most important step is to pick one project to focus on.

Not: There's so much to do, and it's so complicated. I'm overwhelmed by my English term paper.

Instead: I don't have to do the whole project at once. There are separate small steps I can take one at a time to begin researching and drafting my paper. 

Set Up Small, Specific Goals. 

Not: I have to write my report within two months.

Instead: If I write 2 pages per day, Monday-Friday, I can finish a 1st draft in 1 month. I'll have a revised final draft in 2 months. 

Take One Small Step at a Time. 

Not: It's too much. I'll never get it all done

Instead: What is the one next step on my list? I'll concentrate on that step for right now 

Reward Yourself Right Away When You Accomplish a Small Goal. 

Not: I can't take any time out until I'm completely finished.

Instead: I spent an hour working. Now I'll call a friend. 

Use a Time Schedule. 

Not: I must devote the whole week to this project

XXXXXInstead: I can use these times this week to work

Monday 7-8; Tuesday 7-9; Saturday 10-12. 

Learn How to Tell Time. 

Not: Sorting through these papers and reorganizing my file cabinet will be a snap. It won't take me more than an hour, so I can do it any time.

Instead: Sorting papers always takes longer than I expect, so I'll start tonight. I'll spend 1 hour filing 1 stack of papers. 

Optimize Your Chances for Success. 

Not: I'll do my writing this weekend at home.

Instead: I'll write during the week in a library. (Choose whatever conditions are optimal for you to get work done.) 

Delegate, if Possible. 

Not: I am the only person in the world who can do this.

Instead: I don't have to do this all by myself. I can ask someone else to do part of the job and still feel a sense of accomplishment. 

Just Get Started. 

Not: I can't write this speech until inspiration hits.

Instead: I'll write what first comes to mind, then improve it later. 

Look at What You Have Accomplished.

Not: I have hardly made a dent in all there is to do.

Instead: I have reviewed my lecture notes and read 3 chapters. That won't guarantee me an "A", but it's more than I did yesterday. 

Be Realistic! 

Not: I should be able to work full-time, take 4 classes, be president of the Debating Club, spend more time with friends, and have time to eat. No problem!

Instead: I have limits. I can take on fewer responsibilities and still like myself.