5 ways to help avoid procrastination at work

There's nothing quite like having to focus on a report or other important piece of work but not being in the mood. Here are a few tips on how to focus on your work and avoid procrastination:

Procrastination wastes time and energy in the workplace, and it's surprising how surfing the Internet and email checking eats into the day.

• When you have a work assignment to do that requires some concentration, it helps to write down the various tasks that need to get done.
• You'll be able to tick them off as you move through the paper or project, and they act as your goals for the day.

Find a quiet space where you can work undisturbed.

• Closing the door sends the signal that you are busy.
• If you work in an open plan space, then use an iPod or other MP3 player that will block out chatter but let you listen to music while you work.
• Set your online status and electronic diary to "busy" so no one can sneak in yet another meeting or distract you.
• If you have one, let your personal assistant know that you are not to be disturbed unless necessary.
• If you work from home, then make sure your family knows that this is work time.
• Should the office gossip drop by at work, politely tell them you have a deadline to meet and can talk to them during your break time.

Before settling down to work, divert your calls to voicemail and turn your cell phone to silent.

• Messages can be picked up later.
• Close your inbox and any web browsing features.
• Emails can wait, as can social media and surfing the Internet.

Arrange to take a break two hours from when you start.

• During the two hours, do nothing but work on your goals for the day.
• Once the time is up, take a break. Get some fresh air and a drink before settling down to another session of work.
• Try varying the work sessions to avoid getting burned out and schedule 5, 10 and 20 minute breaks to give yourself ample time to stretch, relax, and get ready for the next session.

Once the work is complete, it's important to reflect on what worked and what was not so effective.

• Start thinking about introducing some anti-procrastination habits, like checking email less frequently and at scheduled times.

There you have it -- a few simple tips to avoid combat procrastination. Before long, you'll not only have procrastination in the workplace drastically lessened, but will also be a far more productive employee.