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Getting back into the swing of things

I have a list of things to do as long as my elbow. So, this morning? I spent an hour folding clothes. And now I'm watching a DVD and surfing the Internet.

I have a manuscript to edit today, and more to do this week. I also have some writing to do, and a review to do this evening-- and I feel like I constantly have homework and things pressing upon me.

I need a swift kick to make myself start getting some of the things on my list crossed off, or they will keep growing and keep overwhelming me!

What do you do when you are stuck in a rut that you don't know how to get out of?

8 comments so far...

Don't know because right now I am surfing the computer when I should be cleaning the house for her birthday party.
Seriously though, sometimes I make a list and cross them off as I accomplish things. It makes me feel more productive.

Flag as inappropriate Posted by Christine on 8th November 2007
Don't know because right now I am surfing the computer when I should be cleaning the house for her birthday party.
Seriously though, sometimes I make a list and cross them off as I accomplish things. It makes me feel more productive.

Flag as inappropriate Posted by Christine on 8th November 2007
Today I'd just cry.

But usually? Usually I pick a task to start, and say I MUST work on it for 15 minutes. Only 15 minutes, but they must be a focussed, non-distracted, 15 minutes.To help me stay focussed, I set a timer. That way, I don't even get distracted by the clock.

Generally, by the time the timer goes off, I'm into it and don't want to quit.

If I do want to quit, I pick the next thing, and do it for 15 minutes. Then I rotate, back and forth, or sometimes add another task.

Usually it just takes 15 minutes to get me into the groove, and after that, everything's fine.

Flag as inappropriate Posted by MaryP on 7th November 2007
I usually start doing easy tasks first just to get going. Something not too time consuming or annoying. Then i feel traction and that usually gets me moving!

Flag as inappropriate Posted by Victoria on 7th November 2007
Do something to warm up - something that is somewhat work-related, but not something you dread doing. When I have a hard time getting going I'll go read some relevant business or tech blogs -gets me in the mindset to start the day.

Flag as inappropriate Posted by Nataly on 7th November 2007
Do a task where you can see immediate results first. It is motivating to do something where you see progress quickly.

Flag as inappropriate Posted by KathyHowe on 6th November 2007
Well, what always works for me is redoing my To Do list. I think: okay, the reason I'm procrastinating is because I feel overwhelmed. If I can break it down into smaller steps and put the must-do-now stuff at the top, I can usually get my momentum back. And I always break the tough stuff down into ridiculously small stuff so I ALWAYS have something to cross off my list later that day - so satisfying to see that list get shorter!

Flag as inappropriate Posted by Diane on 6th November 2007
ha! yeah i mostly whine and complain here until i just get so annoyed something kicks in and i get moving! or someone says they are coming over in 30 minutes. amazing what can get accomplished in 30 minutes of cleaning! maybe try that timer thing? make it a game! challenge yourself to how much you can do in a short period of time!

Flag as inappropriate Posted by Kate on 6th November 2007