289: 10 ways to stop procrastinating and get. it. done.

Jun 25, 2025

10 Powerful Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get Things Done

Do you ever feel like your to-do list keeps growing, but your motivation to tackle it just isn’t there? If so, you’re not alone! In episode 289 of the Her Empire Builder Show, host Tina Tower shares her top 10 practical strategies to break free from procrastination and take action—even when you don’t feel like it.

Let’s dive into these actionable tips for making real progress in your business and life.

1. Break Big Tasks into Bite-Sized Chunks

The quickest way to feel overwhelmed (and stall out) is to look at a big project as a single massive task. Tina recommends breaking down those daunting “one-liners” (like launching a website or running a conference) into micro steps. Not only does this make the process more manageable, but you also get frequent wins as you tick off each step.

Pro tip: Use project management software, and focus on the next small task instead of the intimidating big picture.

2. Try the Pomodoro Timer

Struggling to stay on task? The Pomodoro method has you work in short, focused bursts (25 minutes), followed by a break. Tina loves using a simple digital timer to trick her brain into staying focused, even with ADHD in the mix. When side quests pop up, jot them down on paper and return to them later.

3. Block Distractions Ruthlessly

Phones and computers are full of attention stealers. Tina recommends using distraction-blocking apps like Opal or Freedom to lock yourself out of social media, email, and chat apps during set periods. You’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish when you shield yourself from interruptions.

4. Stay Organized with Project Management Tools

Find a project management system that works for your brain. For Tina, that’s Monday.com—complete with color coding, automations, and fun confetti when you finish a task! Whatever your tool, use it to brain-dump, prioritize, and keep track of progress. Revisit your list regularly to focus on tasks that bring joy, improve your customer experience, or generate income.

5. Set Clear Work Windows

Don’t just drift through your workday—time block! Assign yourself specific windows to complete key tasks, and limit how long you allow for each. That sense of urgency can boost your productivity, without burning you out.

6. Start with ‘Just 10 Minutes’

If you’re reluctant to start something tough, promise yourself you’ll do it for just 10 minutes. Often, the hardest part is getting started—momentum and motivation follow action, not the other way around.

7. Build in Rewards

Pair hard work with positive reinforcement. Tina would reward herself with a Malteser for every 1,000 words written! Celebrate your effort, big or small, with something that feels good. This makes your brain eager to repeat the process.

8. Remember: Done Is Better Than Perfect

Perfectionism is sneaky procrastination in disguise. Ship your work at 80-90% done—improving it endlessly means your audience might never see it. Excellence is important, but don’t let the pursuit of perfection stop you from making progress.

9. Visualize It Finished

Spend a few moments picturing the project completed. Imagine how it will look, feel, and the impact it’ll have, just like Tina does when planning an event. This tricks your brain into believing completion is inevitable—and lowers overwhelm.

10. Celebrate Your Small Wins

Finally, celebrate every milestone, not just the “big” achievements. Building a business or launching something new is HUGE—so let yourself feel proud and recognize your growth. What gets celebrated gets repeated!

Ready to Take Action?

Remember, you’re not lazy, and you’re certainly not broken if you procrastinate sometimes. With the right tools and strategies, you can train yourself to be someone who honors your own commitments and gets things done—regardless of mood or motivation.

Which of these strategies will you try today? Share your favorite tips or your latest win in the comments. The world needs what you’ve got!

Links & Resources: