Be careful not to put things off because I’m unclear about exactly what I want to do and why. Instead, precisely define my motivation, the outcome I want, and the actions I must take.

If a task is too large to complete in one go, break it up into smaller tasks that can each be completed in one session. Always focus on my next action step, not the end of the larger overall task. Check off each small task as I accomplish it, which will give me a sense of accomplishment and momentum.

When I notice that I’m about to put something off, tell myself that I’m merely going to set up to do the task at a later time. Then, after I’ve set up, I might surprise myself and start right away, because it’ll be so easy to get going. In fact, it will feel like I have already started. Even if tricking myself like this doesn't work, it will be easier for me to start the next time I think about it.

Get started. Everything flows from that. Finishing always comes after starting.

Stop doing my favorite thing until I have completed the task I have been putting off. (Yes, really.) If I don’t want to do something, my brain is good at avoiding it, but if I desperately want to do something, my brain will obsess over it nonstop. When I put an unpleasant task in the way of what my brain wants, my brain will make it happen. For example, if I tell myself that I can’t play my favorite video game until I go to the dentist, I’ll quickly schedule the first available appointment. Remember that taking away something I love is more effective than promising myself a reward. For example, promising myself that I’ll get an ice cream cone on the way home from the dentist is not nearly as effective as promising myself that I'll play my video game. The prospect of a minor reward in the future is not nearly as strong an incentive as is relieving unbearable deprivation felt in the here and now.

Work with an accountability partner to make promises and hold each other accountable. Be specific about what we promise to do and when. Also, be clear about the consequences of failing to keep our promises. Embarrassment will usually suffice.

If all else fails, force myself through sheer willpower to do what I’ve been postponing. There’s nothing wrong with this. In fact, it's a skill I want to develop. As I get better at not procrastinating, try willpower first instead of last.

When I do things, I benefit from what I have done. It's that simple. And over time, it adds up. All the good things in my life (friends, wealth, cherished memories) are an accumulation of good things that I've done and that others have done for me.