Completing Unpleasant Tasks
by: Lynn Cutts
We all have tasks we don't enjoy doing, but they have to get done. Whether it's doing our taxes, cleaning out the refrigerator, or filing that pile of papers, these are the chores we dread. So we end up putting them off over and over again, until the "To File" pile threatens to avalanche onto the floor, or the science experiment in the back of the fridge develops legs and walks away.
Usually when this happens, we get mad at ourselves, which makes us dislike the job even more. We accuse ourselves of being lazy, of having no self-discipline. But that isn't really the problem. Most of the time, it's simply that the task is unpleasant, or we're not good at it, or it's boring. We get less out of the task than we put into it. Or at least it feels that way.
So instead of berating ourselves about our laziness or procrastination, let's take that energy and use it to figure out how to make that chore more pleasant or rewarding. (Chocolate usually works for me.) Sometimes it's as simple as pulling out a pair of rubber gloves before you tackle the fridge, or brewing a special pot of coffee to sip while you struggle with the taxes. The most effective thing to do is to change your feelings about the chore. Find something positive about it and focus on that. Be glad you have a refrigerator with food in it. Appreciate the fact that you have sufficient income to pay taxes.
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Completing Unpleasant Tasks
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About The Author
Chocolate-loving Life Coach Lynn Cutts’ mission is to change the world for the better, one person at a time. At www.ManageYourMuse.com, she shares free tips, essays, games and quizzes to discover your personal dreams. Lynn offers one-on-one coaching, group coaching and self-guided programs to help you create your own boundless life.
NOTE: You are welcome to use this article online in electronic newsletters and e-zines as long as it remains complete and unaltered (including the "about the author" info). If use of this article is desired in print, you must first contact Lynn Cutts at Lynn@ManageYourMuse.com.
Copyright 2005 Lynn Cutts
lynn@manageyourmuse.com
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