Procrastination. We've all been guilty of it. It's a vicious cycle, really. You want to be productive, but you get distracted by something else instead. 

I used to suffer from this dilemma. I start to type a few sentences but then find myself browsing through Facebook minutes later. Before I know it, hours have passed with a large portion of my screen still white, reminding me that I've not done anything yet.

But not anymore! With a bit of research and some self-reflection, I'm now consistently in my most productive state. And I'm going to share with you five pro tips on how to overcome procrastination and own the most of your time!

Tip #1: Break Your Tasks Down into Manageable Pieces

A common reason you procrastinate is that something feels too colossal of a task that you don't know where to start. You feel like there's nothing you can do to make a dent.

One way of overcoming this obstacle is to break down tasks into manageable pieces. It makes your current objective less daunting so that you won't be overwhelmed by the entirety of the project. 

Let's take my job as an example. Writing blogs take a lot of research and brainwork. I easily get exhausted after writing one. But instead of tackling my weekly quota in one go, I divide my work process between days.

I research all about my topics on Monday. On Tuesday, I create outlines for each blog post. Then I write them from Wednesday to Thursday. Lastly, I proofread and edit my work on Friday.

See, I make sure to get something done every day. And since my task doesn't seem too demanding anymore, I don't have a reason to put them off for later. By breaking down your task, you know what to do and what to expect.

Tip #2: Use a Task Manager

Alright. You've already broken down your project into smaller goals. However, dozens of tasks can also be confusing. You have to manage them and prioritize the crucial ones. There are two ways to do this: 

• First is the traditional approach. Write down a to-do list on a sticky note and paste it on your wall. Crash out any tasks once it's complete. 

• Think the method above is too much of a hassle? Well, save clutter and space by using a task management software instead. The best productivity tools can save your hours of work! 

How Dashup helps you manage tasks: Say goodbye to messy notes! Create digital cards instead and move them across the board for a customized to-do list. Just add a card, write the specifics, and then set its priority accordingly. No reason to procrastinate when you've got everything under control. Sounds awesome? Give it a free shot today!

Tip #3: Eliminate Distractions

Anything not related to your work can prevent you from getting started. After all, it's easier to watch your favorite YouTuber than prepare a PowerPoint presentation for the team. 

Eliminating distractions can be tough. Isn't it tempting to check your phone every now and then? Well, start by putting it on silent mode when working. Put the TV remote away from your reach. Let your kids play in another room to keep them occupied.

Get in the zone. Just like what I'm doing right now -- totally ignoring my Facebook notifications to finish this article. The thing is, focus on the task at hand. You can do anything you want once you're done.

Tip #4: Reward Yourself

Beating procrastination is no easy feat. It might not seem much, but think about how many people always succumb to it. So if you've managed to finish a task, it makes sense to reward yourself. You can check your phone for ten minutes or watch TV. Perhaps grab a snack from the fridge or play some video games. Just make sure not to overdo your reward and remember to get back to work. Discipline is the key.

Tip #5: Get Some Sleep, Eat Healthy and Exercise

An anti-procrastination mindset would be of no use if your body can't keep up. Remember that health is wealth. This means more than just not getting sick. You should always brim with energy to take on your day-to-day tasks.

Boost your productivity by eating veggies, fruits, and lean meat. Avoid junk and fast food. Try not to stay up late with your phone. Sleep deprivation causes fatigue, and fatigue leads to procrastination. Last, get moving! Don't sit in front of your computer all day. Go on morning walks or simply stretch every few hours. 

The Bottom Line

Procrastination is like an illness that will gradually eat away your motivation and energy. But like any other disease, it can be prevented and treated. Overcoming procrastination is easy. You just need a flexible mindset, discipline, and the right tool to stay on top of things.

What's the most helpful tip above so far? It has to be number two for sure!