We all have things we dread doing, things we put off until the last minute and then rush to get done. This article for instance, I've known about it for at least 4 months, what I've wanted to write has been in my head for two weeks, yet I have waited until the last minute to put it together. There are always those customers we know we need to call, reports to complete, or talks we need to have but for whatever reason we put them off until we get the courage up, the time, or the right moment to finally take hold of and do.

When I researched why people procrastinate I found some very good reasons why and how to overcome this habit we can easily fall into.

* Lack of structure - we have so many distractions, cell phones, social media, emails, Google. These all play into shifting our focus from the task at hand. Set aside these distractions, turn off your phone for a while, shut down all your browsers except what is absolutely needed and give yourself an hour of uninterrupted time to accomplish your task.

* It's unpleasant, boring, or overwhelming - these are the tasks we tend to put off most. Instead of looking at the entire task as a whole, divide it into more manageable projects. When it's accomplished reward yourself, take a break, go for a walk, refresh. You will have a better sense of accomplishment.

* Timing - we may have something that once accomplished will not reap the reward right away. We tend to be instant gratification seekers, so these tasks go undone until completely necessary. Try to look past the now and see the full picture.

* Anxiety - avoiding something for fear of failure. This would be one of the most common reasons to put something off. Fear of the unknown or being judged can wreak havoc on our confidence and so we avoid things. Look for ways to ease stress, think positively and do your very best.

* Self Confidence - when we have to deal with difficult tasks people can feel weak or inadequate and tend to avoid activities that could help them acquire new knowledge and skills. What do you have to lose? Do something hard and accomplish it, it's ok to be successful. You deserve it.

Will this help me to not procrastinate next time I have to write an article or do a presentation? I think so. I recognize my triggers that make me put things off. Sometimes it's about recognizing the issue and making a change.