Beating procrastination

Career transitions often come with an array of tasks and decisions, making it a prime time for procrastination to rear its head. Whether it's delaying job applications, postponing skill upgrades, or hesitating to network, procrastination can hinder progress during these crucial periods.

Understanding procrastination in career transitions

Research by Steel (2007) defines procrastination as the act of delaying tasks despite knowing the potential negative consequences. During career transitions, uncertainty and fear of change can trigger procrastination, causing individuals to delay essential steps toward their career goals.

Combatting procrastination

1. Break tasks into smaller steps

Break down tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. This approach minimizes overwhelm and makes tasks seem less daunting, motivating you to initiate and complete them.

2. Set clear goals and deadlines

Establish clear and realistic goals during career transitions. Setting specific deadlines for each goal creates accountability and a sense of urgency, reducing the tendency to procrastinate.

3. Use the two-minute rule

Adopt the "Two-Minute Rule" - if a task takes less than two minutes to complete, do it immediately. This approach helps in tackling small tasks promptly and prevents accumulation.

4. Create a structured schedule

Create a structured daily or weekly schedule. Allocating specific time slots for job search, skill development, and networking activities fosters consistency and minimizes procrastination.

5. Practice self-reflection

Meditation or deep breathing exercises can help identify underlying reasons for procrastination and develop strategies to overcome it.

Psychological insights

Research by Pychyl and Flett (2012) highlights the role of self-regulation in overcoming procrastination. Developing self-regulatory skills, such as managing emotions and setting specific goals, can help counteract tendencies to procrastinate during career transition.

Conclusion

Procrastination can be a significant hurdle during career transitions, but with proactive strategies, individuals can overcome it and progress towards their professional goals.

References:

1. Steel, P. (2007). The nature of procrastination: A meta-analytic and theoretical review of quintessential self-regulatory failure. Psychological Bulletin, 133(1), 65–94. DOI: 10.1037/0033-2909.133.1.65

2. Pychyl, T. A., & Flett, G. L. (2012). Procrastination and self-regulatory failure: An introduction to the special issue. Journal of Rational-Emotive & Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, 30(4), 203–212. DOI: 10.1007/s10942-012-0155-y.