You Deserve Better: Conquering Procrastination and Reclaiming Your Time

Procrastination: It Continues to be a Problem



Procrastination, the habit that sneaks into our lives regardless of our understanding of its consequences. In the midst of daily schedules, filled with to-do lists and responsibilities, our brains often seek rest in the form of procrastination – be it scrolling through social media, watching Netflix, or engaging in seemingly productive tasks. As parents and educators, we frequently find our time slipping away. 


What if There Was a Better Way? 

We might not be able to permanently solve the problem, but we might be able to reclaim some of our time. What if there was a way to try and win the next day, or zone in the day and attack procrastination, taking back what is ours? Mel Robbins' insightful podcast, "Boost Your Success in 2024" offers a fresh perspective on tackling procrastination by explaining 5 zones during the day. Embracing the five zones with intentionality can unleash our unlimited potential and make handling procrastination more manageable. Here's to reclaiming what is rightfully ours!

The 5 Zones a Day:

Zone 1: The Morning Magic

The moment you wake up, Zone 1 holds the key to a productive day. By resisting the urge to dive into digital distractions and external demands, magic can be expanded. This is the perfect zone to pray, medicate, read, journal or stretch. It could include a workout or inspiring music as long as it is not a digital distraction. 

Zone 2: Guard Your Energy

When attention shifts to external stimuli like social media, news, emails, or messages, Zone 2 demands a place. The magic lies in waiting as long as possible to enter this zone Guard your heart and your mind. As Annick Rauch says in The PheMoMenal Teacher, treat your energy like a currency. Spend it wisely. Since we are human, zone 2 will begin at some point, however, by choosing to completely engage and absorb zone 1, our time in zone 2 will make less of an impact on the day. 

Zone 3: Work Time Boundaries

Technology allows zone 3 to begin as early as possible. Establishing boundaries is crucial to prevent Zone 3 from dominating your entire day. Embrace this zone without resentment, and understand that productivity is essential. One of my favorite runners says, ¨Be where your feet are”.  Mel Robbins explains that we should not be resentful of zone 3 and honestly expect that it looks like work. Sometimes we wait too long to get started or stay in zone 3. Zone 4 can only begin after zone 3 has taken place. Timely initiation of Zone 3 paves the way for Zone 4.

Zone 4: Midday Reflection

Starting around 3 pm, Zone 4 can be perceived as a gray area. Instead of succumbing to low energy and negativity, consider it a time for reflection and positivity. Sean Gaillard in  his most recent podcast Small Moments to Find the Good, that much like an I spy game, it is important to take time out to spot the good. What if zone 4 began with spotting and reflecting on the good things? Zone 4 might also be a time to listen to a podcast, upbeat music or a book that gives us a surge of energy to enjoy the zone. 

Zone 4 also includes time after school and work. It typically starts with the transition from what we have spent the day doing to our time at home. Zone 4 can be a time to come together, and celebrate virtually or in person. I think about dinner time conversations, evening walks, phone conversations, gathering to watch TV shows or chats on X that make zone 4 something to look forward to. 

Zone 5: Unplug and RechargeThe final zone begins when you turn off everything at night. Zone 5 includes relaxation, meaningful conversations, music, reading, and early bedtime. Zone 5 sets up how the next day will go and matters a lot. 

Take Back What Is Yours:

Rather than postponing Zone 3, fully embrace it and be present. When in need of a break, opt for a few minutes of Zone 1 or 5 instead of succumbing to Zone 2's distractions. Refuse to settle. Reclaim what is rightfully yours by navigating through the 5 zones with purpose and intentionality. Your time is a precious currency – spend it on what truly matters. Make sure the days are happening for you not to you. 


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