Put Procrastination In Its Place

Frequently, I hear from appellate practitioners how they get bit by the procrastination bug when several projects are looming on the horizon.  When you are feeling overwhelmed by projects or lacking focus, here are some tips to get you on task:

1. Set aside the first 10 minutes of your day to to set up a schedule for the day, complete any personal tasks, and get a cup of coffee.
2. When creating your daily schedule, allocate time segments for each project on your list. 
3. Schedule your time segments for optimal focus.  Each time segment should be no longer than 90 minutes.  If you have a big project to complete, break the project into small parts that will each last, no more than 90 minutes.
4. Have a list of five minute mini-tasks. Use these to break up larger projects. Complete these when you find yourself with a few minutes to spare.
5. Put your daily schedule in a prominent spot on your desk so you can easily "check in" throughout the day. Take regular breaks.  Breaks re-charge your mind and concentration

At the end of a productive day, give yourself a head start on tomorrow by following these three tips: 

1. Clean off your desk so an orderly desk will greet you the next morning.
2. Review Tomorrow’s Agenda before leaving the office
3. Organize the next day’s tasks on your desk in order of priority.

Now, get to work!