Most people can relate to the feeling of waiting until the last minute to complete a task or attempting to start a project only to get distracted doing everything but the project. Such an instance is commonly known as procrastination, and it can create a domino of severe problems if not appropriately addressed.
In a statement from Nate Mell, "The root of procrastination stems from triggers. If not cautiously avoided, these triggers lead to procrastination and can ultimately take away work and life opportunities."
As an individual, Mell understands the allure of procrastination. Though, as the founder, and CEO of the Philadelphia-based ceramic design studio, Felt+Fat, he knows it's necessary to overcome procrastination in all forms for a business to be successful. To conquer procrastination once and for all, Mell encourages organizations and individuals alike to learn the six common triggers that fuel this temporizing mentality.
1. A Bad Mood
There are some days where even a Snickers candy bar cannot solve the Snow White Dwarf Grumpy blues, and on those days, procrastination sits and waits for its invitation. A bad mood can make anyone want to quit, give up, or cause frustration, which readily welcomes procrastination. People who are self-aware enough to recognize their negative attitude should address the mood before getting to work.
2. No Plan
As the saying goes, "make a plan, work a plan." However, with a lack of a plan, it can be challenging to start and complete tasks. The intimidation of not knowing where to take the first step can cause a mental freeze and unproductive interest elsewhere. When a job needs to get done, but there is no plan, start somewhere, anywhere, to take the first step forward to avoid procrastinating.
3. Lack of Purpose
Purpose brings passion and personal significance to the table, which is excellent for finding and maintaining motivation. Take meaning out of any to-do task, and the scenario will be the opposite of flourishing productivity. An open mind and optimistic perspective can significantly assist for things that seem least important but are not.
4. Level of Difficulty
Challenging objectives are mentally mountainous to overcome and can generate stress that will make anyone run to the procrastination hills. When all there seems to be is a gigantic wall to climb, it is essential to stop looking up at the entire picture or task as a whole. Instead, focus on one step at a time and being present, and there is a
chance to find joy in the struggle. This strategy is particularly critical for any entrepreneur.
"There have been innumerable struggles along the way, from just figuring out the technical challenges of payroll to troubleshooting major chemical issues in clay and glazes. We are always barely keeping up and riding a razor's edge when it comes to output, expectations, and our ability to keep our clients happy. It's all scary and fun and overwhelming, but that's why it keeps me coming back every day," said Nate Mell.
5. Bored
Tasks that fail to stimulate the brain and generate interest and motivation properly are at risk of provoking boredom. Minor additions to the environment when performing a tedious job, such as playing favorite music for background noise, can keep procrastination at bay.
6. No Reward
Any to-do tastes a little sweeter when there is a reward waiting at the finish line. For the tasks that seem impossible to overcome, a personal reward system is beneficial to set up to have reward milestones or a unique and exciting completion prize to induce inspiration.
About Nate Mell
Nate Mell is the founder and CEO of Felt+Fat, a ceramic design and manufacturing studio based in Philadelphia's Kensington neighborhood. In 2013 Nate was asked to design a set of plates for the award-winning restaurant 'High Street on Market.' Since then, the Felt and Fat studio and team have grown exponentially through Mell's leadership to
become a go-to manufacturer for design-conscious restaurateurs.
