Procrastination

Procrastination - I suffer from it. I don't know if it's an illness, inherant, or just a bad habit. But it seems to hit me hardest when I have lots to do.

To force myself to do things I have a couple tricks I'll share with you.

1. Make lists. It is so satsifying to cross something off of a list. At least to me.

2. Use sticky notes. I have so many things going through my head about what I need to do, want to do and plain old just have to do. Sticky notes help to capture all those fleeting thoughts.

3. Trick myself. For instance on Saturdays I want to sleep in late even though later in the day I regret it. So to make myself get up, I set the alarm for my normal time, wake up and tell myself "you're just going to get up and make Tim's lunch - then you can go back to bed if you are still sleepy." Of course, once I get up and make the lunch, I'm much wider awake.

4. Make deals with myself. I give myself deadlines and rewards. For instance this morning I wanted to get some paper cutting crafts done, but I also wanted to attend a big craft fair going on today. I forced myself to start the craft project and will reward myself with the craft fair. That way I get both done and don't feel like I've been deprived.

I know it's silly, but it's what I have to do to keep myself motivated.

So here is the beginning of the next candle paper cutting. I started with a pattern of fairies. I had to repeat it three times to fit the template.

Then I realized it was "free floating" so I had to create borders and designs to "anchor" it to the paper. If I hadn't I would have three separate fairy designs that were not connected to anything - they would be good for pasting onto a card or something, but wouldn't create a border around a candle like I wanted.

Next I forced myself to cut the most intricate areas first. That gives you a better grip when cutting and also helps to keep tiny areas from tearing. Plus, I like to do the hardest parts first, then I can just enjoy the rest. (plus I cut one larger area as a reward.)

Now I get to go the the Crafts Emporium in the new Dena'ina center.