A simple trick to quit procrastinating boring tasks

At nearly 40 years old, I still sometimes struggle with transitioning from the couch to bed at the end of the night and use this trick to quit procrastinating boring tasks.

Transitions are hard – for kids and adults both – so here’s a simple trick to make transitions to less-interesting tasks easier.

As a stress and anxiety coach, I often hear people struggling with procrastination. We all have tasks that we don’t feel like doing, whether it’s going to bed on time or getting our work done. 

And, if you have kids, you know that transitioning from a preferred or fun activity to something else can be difficult for them as well. 

Keep reading or watch this Reel to make transitions to boring tasks easier:

Here is a simple little to quit procrastinating those boring tasks.

The Countdown Warning Technique

The countdown warning technique is a simple yet effective way to manage your expectations and prepare yourself for the upcoming task. For example, if you are watching TV and need to go to bed, give yourself a countdown warning before the next episode starts. 

Remind yourself that you will turn off the TV and go upstairs after the episode ends. This technique helps you manage your disappointment in advance and makes it easier to make the transition.

Applying the Technique with Kids

Children often struggle with transitions, especially when they are having fun. However, using the countdown warning technique can help them prepare for the upcoming change. 

Give them a warning that they will be leaving the playground in ten minutes, then remind them again at the five-minute mark.

This way, they can manage their expectations and be ready for the transition. The same technique can be used for any activity, such as leaving a friend’s house or getting ready for bed.

The Benefits of the Countdown Warning Technique

The countdown warning technique not only makes transitions easier but also helps reduce stress and anxiety. By managing your expectations and preparing yourself for the upcoming task, you can avoid the feeling of being overwhelmed or caught off guard. 

This technique is also a great way to improve your time management skills, as it helps you stay on track and avoid procrastination.

Plus with kids, the timer becomes the “bad guy” instead of mom or dad.

The bottom line:

Procrastination can be a frustrating and challenging habit to overcome, but using the countdown warning technique can make it easier. By managing your disappointment in advance and preparing yourself for the upcoming task, you can make transitions smoother and reduce stress and anxiety. 

The same technique can be used with children to help them manage their expectations and make transitions easier. So, the next time you find yourself procrastinating, try the countdown warning technique and see the difference it can make.

Where to go from here:

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