Starting might be the hardest aspect of any task. Consider the dreaded Waukesha bathroom remodeling project that’s been on your list for months. You need to do it, but where to start? Procrastination is typically a complex dance of emotions and avoidance actions, not just bad time management. We can stop putting off huge jobs and start checking them off with the correct strategies.

Let’s start with the giant, daunting project. When we consider anything big like remodeling a bathroom, we think, “I’ll never get this done!” What if we cut it into smaller, less daunting pieces? Today, maybe you pick new tiles. Call some contractors for quotes tomorrow. Breaking down the task makes it seem like a succession of tiny hills—manageable.

What about when you avoid a boring task? Say you need to sort through a mound of tax receipts. Not exciting work. Pair it with something you like to make it more enjoyable. This may be your favorite podcast or a cup of coffee. Even the dreariest activities can be made more bearable with a little incentive.

Then comes waiting for the “right moment” to begin. Truth: the perfect time rarely comes. Set a 5-minute timer instead of waiting to feel ready. Say, “I’ll work on this for 5 minutes.” We often start and realize it’s not as horrible as we anticipated, so we keep going. Building momentum is key.

Fear—fear of failure or success—can be the issue. Fear is typical when doing significant things like establishing a business or applying for a job. Recognizing these fears is key. Discuss them with a friend or write them down. Bringing your worries to light often reduces their potency, allowing you to go forward.

Please consider the environment. How well we complete tasks depends on it. A messy desk makes it tougher to focus. Spend time making the place inviting and organized. Clearing your desk can make a big difference without a significant renovation.