8 answers
Derek
Student
Bothell, Washington
1
Question
Asked
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How do I turn my weakness into one of my strength?
I am a kind of person that procrastinates a lot. I like working under pressure because I do my work at the last moments.
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8 answers
Marylou DiFilippo
Actor, Teacher
50
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Marylou’s Answer
Wow What a fantastic question. That in itself tells me that you know yourself. And that’s the first step in going forward. Again. Wow.
I am a teacher. And also an actor. We only get our sides at the last minute, so, talk about pressure? We live this way. And I thrive on it, because it forces me to focus.
I have ADHD. Just saying. And nothing, absolutely nothing forces me to do anything but what must be done at the last minute!!
I have a tattoo on my inter wrist. It says breathe. Most people forget to do so. So I had this tattooed so I could remember to do so myself. My profession is all about last minute. And it’s all about breathing. If that helps I hope. Success going forward.
I am a teacher. And also an actor. We only get our sides at the last minute, so, talk about pressure? We live this way. And I thrive on it, because it forces me to focus.
I have ADHD. Just saying. And nothing, absolutely nothing forces me to do anything but what must be done at the last minute!!
I have a tattoo on my inter wrist. It says breathe. Most people forget to do so. So I had this tattooed so I could remember to do so myself. My profession is all about last minute. And it’s all about breathing. If that helps I hope. Success going forward.
Avirup Ray
Student
39
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Avirup’s Answer
Do you try to finish others work instead of doing yours? If so, you have to realize that they will only become reliant on you and you will constantly fall behind on your work. You have to focus on yourself before you can help others.
Joanette Glover
6
Answers
Updated
Joanette’s Answer
I appreciate your inquiry about strengthening areas of weakness. We all have aspects of our lives that could use a bit of polishing. I prefer to view these so-called weaknesses as opportunities for growth, as this perspective allows me to focus on bettering myself.
When I pinpoint these growth areas, I usually concentrate on one at a time (unless they are interconnected) to avoid feeling overwhelmed by trying to tackle everything simultaneously. This approach ensures a manageable pace and allows me to dedicate myself fully to the process of evaluation, planning, and improvement without spreading myself too thin.
Here are some strategies to combat procrastination:
1. Draft a list of actionable steps required to complete a task, and assign deadlines for each. This will help you distribute your tasks evenly and avoid last-minute rush. I find that to-do lists are incredibly helpful as they allow me to visualize my progress.
2. Incorporate rewards into your to-do list. For instance, after completing two steps on my task list, I might take a break to celebrate with friends, watch my favorite TV show, or indulge in a favorite treat. Rewarding yourself for accomplishments and goal attainment can spur you on to greater achievements.
3. Challenge yourself to adopt a proactive mindset. Tell yourself, "Sure, I could put this off until later, but I choose to be proactive. I choose to make progress. I won't wait until the last minute, so I can enjoy more leisure time or get a head start on larger projects." Positive affirmations can be incredibly powerful.
4. Finally, remember to celebrate your progress in overcoming procrastination. Every step forward, no matter how small, is a victory worth celebrating.
When I pinpoint these growth areas, I usually concentrate on one at a time (unless they are interconnected) to avoid feeling overwhelmed by trying to tackle everything simultaneously. This approach ensures a manageable pace and allows me to dedicate myself fully to the process of evaluation, planning, and improvement without spreading myself too thin.
Here are some strategies to combat procrastination:
1. Draft a list of actionable steps required to complete a task, and assign deadlines for each. This will help you distribute your tasks evenly and avoid last-minute rush. I find that to-do lists are incredibly helpful as they allow me to visualize my progress.
2. Incorporate rewards into your to-do list. For instance, after completing two steps on my task list, I might take a break to celebrate with friends, watch my favorite TV show, or indulge in a favorite treat. Rewarding yourself for accomplishments and goal attainment can spur you on to greater achievements.
3. Challenge yourself to adopt a proactive mindset. Tell yourself, "Sure, I could put this off until later, but I choose to be proactive. I choose to make progress. I won't wait until the last minute, so I can enjoy more leisure time or get a head start on larger projects." Positive affirmations can be incredibly powerful.
4. Finally, remember to celebrate your progress in overcoming procrastination. Every step forward, no matter how small, is a victory worth celebrating.
Ryan Kretz
46
Answers
Irvine, California
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
Procrastination can be a common challenge, but with the right strategies, you can turn it into a strength. Here are a few steps you can take:
Understand your procrastination triggers: Reflect on what causes you to procrastinate. Is it a fear of failure, lack of interest, or feeling overwhelmed? Identifying these triggers will help you develop targeted solutions.
Break tasks into smaller, manageable chunks: Instead of waiting until the last minute, break your work into smaller tasks and set deadlines for each. This will help you stay organized and motivated throughout the process.
Create a schedule and stick to it: Develop a daily or weekly schedule that includes specific time slots for each task. By allocating dedicated time for work, you can avoid the temptation to procrastinate and build a habit of consistent productivity.
Find motivation and accountability: Identify what motivates you and use it to your advantage. It could be rewards, working with a study group, or sharing your goals with a friend who can hold you accountable.
Practice time management techniques: Explore different time management techniques, such as the Pomodoro Technique or Eisenhower Matrix, to help you prioritize tasks and make the most of your time.
Remember, turning procrastination into a strength takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and celebrate small victories along the way. With consistent practice and self-discipline, you can overcome this challenge and become more productive.
Understand your procrastination triggers: Reflect on what causes you to procrastinate. Is it a fear of failure, lack of interest, or feeling overwhelmed? Identifying these triggers will help you develop targeted solutions.
Break tasks into smaller, manageable chunks: Instead of waiting until the last minute, break your work into smaller tasks and set deadlines for each. This will help you stay organized and motivated throughout the process.
Create a schedule and stick to it: Develop a daily or weekly schedule that includes specific time slots for each task. By allocating dedicated time for work, you can avoid the temptation to procrastinate and build a habit of consistent productivity.
Find motivation and accountability: Identify what motivates you and use it to your advantage. It could be rewards, working with a study group, or sharing your goals with a friend who can hold you accountable.
Practice time management techniques: Explore different time management techniques, such as the Pomodoro Technique or Eisenhower Matrix, to help you prioritize tasks and make the most of your time.
Remember, turning procrastination into a strength takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and celebrate small victories along the way. With consistent practice and self-discipline, you can overcome this challenge and become more productive.
Nikhil Gore
Engineering Manager
2
Answers
Bellevue, Washington
Updated
Nikhil’s Answer
Answer: Congratulations on taking the initial step towards self-improvement by recognizing the need for change. This is a journey many of us have embarked on, and I'm here to share my own experiences in the hope that it will guide you in carving out your unique path.
During my college years, I was a notorious procrastinator, often submitting assignments just in the nick of time. The grades I received were mediocre at best, not truly reflecting my abilities or understanding of the subjects. The countless sleepless nights I spent rushing to complete assignments also took a toll on my well-being. Eventually, it dawned on me that this pattern needed to change for my own happiness. Gradually, I adjusted my habits, leading to improved grades and, more importantly, a happier me. Your motivation will be your driving force in this journey, so it's crucial to identify what truly motivates you.
I suggest you delve into the book "Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones" by James Clear. It's packed with valuable insights and practical tips that will steer you towards the path of positive change.
During my college years, I was a notorious procrastinator, often submitting assignments just in the nick of time. The grades I received were mediocre at best, not truly reflecting my abilities or understanding of the subjects. The countless sleepless nights I spent rushing to complete assignments also took a toll on my well-being. Eventually, it dawned on me that this pattern needed to change for my own happiness. Gradually, I adjusted my habits, leading to improved grades and, more importantly, a happier me. Your motivation will be your driving force in this journey, so it's crucial to identify what truly motivates you.
I suggest you delve into the book "Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones" by James Clear. It's packed with valuable insights and practical tips that will steer you towards the path of positive change.
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
750
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Derek, it's important to understand that changing a weakness into a strength, especially in the case of procrastination, demands self-awareness, dedication, and the use of effective techniques. Procrastination can slow down productivity and bring about unnecessary stress, but with the right mindset, you can turn this habit into a beneficial tool.
The initial step is to comprehend the root causes of your procrastination. Take time to think about why you tend to put off tasks and perform better under pressure. Could it be fear of failure, perfectionism, lack of motivation, or simply a liking for the adrenaline rush that comes with tight deadlines? Recognizing these underlying reasons can offer valuable insight into how to effectively tackle and conquer procrastination.
Once you've identified the reasons for your procrastination, Derek, you can create strategies that are tailored to reduce its impact and use it to your benefit. For instance, if you work well under pressure, think about setting fake deadlines for yourself to create a sense of urgency and mimic the conditions that stimulate your best performance. Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps and assign specific times for completing each one, ensuring that you're making consistent progress even when deadlines aren't imminent.
Moreover, foster a proactive attitude towards time management and task prioritization. Make a structured schedule or to-do list that outlines your daily priorities and allocate enough time for each task, including extra time to accommodate for unexpected delays or obstacles. By creating a clear action plan and sticking to deadlines, you can reduce the temptation to procrastinate and stay on course to achieve your goals.
Also, Derek, it's crucial to tackle any underlying factors contributing to your procrastination, such as perfectionism or fear of failure. Change your mindset from viewing mistakes or setbacks as failures to seeing them as opportunities for growth and learning. Accept imperfection and focus on progress rather than perfection, giving yourself the liberty to act and learn from experience without excessive self-criticism or self-doubt.
Getting support and accountability from others can also be helpful in overcoming procrastination. Share your goals and deadlines with friends, family, or coworkers who can offer encouragement, accountability, and constructive feedback. Think about teaming up with an accountability partner or joining a study or productivity group where you can exchange strategies, monitor progress, and hold each other responsible for meeting deadlines and accomplishing goals.
In conclusion, Derek, transforming procrastination into a strength involves recognizing underlying causes, employing effective time management and task prioritization strategies, shifting mindset, overcoming perfectionism, and seeking support and accountability from others. By leveraging your tendency to excel under pressure and directing it towards productive action, you can use the power of deadlines to boost motivation, increase productivity, and achieve success in your pursuits.
The initial step is to comprehend the root causes of your procrastination. Take time to think about why you tend to put off tasks and perform better under pressure. Could it be fear of failure, perfectionism, lack of motivation, or simply a liking for the adrenaline rush that comes with tight deadlines? Recognizing these underlying reasons can offer valuable insight into how to effectively tackle and conquer procrastination.
Once you've identified the reasons for your procrastination, Derek, you can create strategies that are tailored to reduce its impact and use it to your benefit. For instance, if you work well under pressure, think about setting fake deadlines for yourself to create a sense of urgency and mimic the conditions that stimulate your best performance. Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps and assign specific times for completing each one, ensuring that you're making consistent progress even when deadlines aren't imminent.
Moreover, foster a proactive attitude towards time management and task prioritization. Make a structured schedule or to-do list that outlines your daily priorities and allocate enough time for each task, including extra time to accommodate for unexpected delays or obstacles. By creating a clear action plan and sticking to deadlines, you can reduce the temptation to procrastinate and stay on course to achieve your goals.
Also, Derek, it's crucial to tackle any underlying factors contributing to your procrastination, such as perfectionism or fear of failure. Change your mindset from viewing mistakes or setbacks as failures to seeing them as opportunities for growth and learning. Accept imperfection and focus on progress rather than perfection, giving yourself the liberty to act and learn from experience without excessive self-criticism or self-doubt.
Getting support and accountability from others can also be helpful in overcoming procrastination. Share your goals and deadlines with friends, family, or coworkers who can offer encouragement, accountability, and constructive feedback. Think about teaming up with an accountability partner or joining a study or productivity group where you can exchange strategies, monitor progress, and hold each other responsible for meeting deadlines and accomplishing goals.
In conclusion, Derek, transforming procrastination into a strength involves recognizing underlying causes, employing effective time management and task prioritization strategies, shifting mindset, overcoming perfectionism, and seeking support and accountability from others. By leveraging your tendency to excel under pressure and directing it towards productive action, you can use the power of deadlines to boost motivation, increase productivity, and achieve success in your pursuits.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6183
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Derek,
Uncover the Root of Your Procrastination:
The initial move in transforming your procrastination habit into a strength is to uncover its root cause. Various factors can trigger procrastination, including fear of failure, lack of motivation, striving for perfection, feeling overwhelmed, or not having well-defined goals.
Establish Definite Goals and Rank Your Tasks:
Having pinpointed the reason behind your procrastination, your next move should be to establish definite goals and rank your tasks. By dividing your goals into smaller, achievable tasks and ranking them based on their importance and deadlines, you can devise a roadmap that keeps you focused and driven to work steadily.
Formulate a Well-Structured Routine:
To conquer procrastination, it's crucial to formulate a well-structured routine that assigns specific time slots for each task or goal. By adhering to a routine and maintaining a schedule, you can foster discipline and cultivate a habit of working steadily towards your aims.
Remove Distractions and Foster a Productive Atmosphere:
A vital step in converting procrastination into a strength is to remove distractions and foster a productive work atmosphere. Identify what distracts you the most while working and take proactive steps to reduce or remove these distractions. This could involve setting limits with technology, finding a quiet workspace, or utilizing productivity tools to maintain focus.
Employ Mindfulness Techniques and Self-Reflection:
Mindfulness techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises can enhance your focus and concentration, making it easier to resist the temptation to procrastinate. Additionally, regular self-reflection on your progress, acknowledging small victories, and learning from setbacks can help you stay driven and dedicated to conquering procrastination.
Pursue Accountability and Support:
Lastly, pursuing accountability from others or collaborating with a mentor or coach can offer external motivation and support in overcoming procrastination. By sharing your goals with someone else and regularly updating them on your progress, you are more likely to stay accountable and driven to work towards transforming your weakness into a strength.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used in Answering this Question:
Harvard Business Review: The Harvard Business Review delivers evidence-based insights and strategies for personal growth, productivity enhancement, and overcoming hurdles like procrastination.
Psychology Today: Psychology Today provides expert guidance on understanding human behavior, including the psychology of procrastination and practical tips for habit change.
Forbes: Forbes discusses topics related to leadership growth, self-improvement, and success strategies that can be applied to transform weaknesses into strengths like overcoming procrastination.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos.
Uncover the Root of Your Procrastination:
The initial move in transforming your procrastination habit into a strength is to uncover its root cause. Various factors can trigger procrastination, including fear of failure, lack of motivation, striving for perfection, feeling overwhelmed, or not having well-defined goals.
Establish Definite Goals and Rank Your Tasks:
Having pinpointed the reason behind your procrastination, your next move should be to establish definite goals and rank your tasks. By dividing your goals into smaller, achievable tasks and ranking them based on their importance and deadlines, you can devise a roadmap that keeps you focused and driven to work steadily.
Formulate a Well-Structured Routine:
To conquer procrastination, it's crucial to formulate a well-structured routine that assigns specific time slots for each task or goal. By adhering to a routine and maintaining a schedule, you can foster discipline and cultivate a habit of working steadily towards your aims.
Remove Distractions and Foster a Productive Atmosphere:
A vital step in converting procrastination into a strength is to remove distractions and foster a productive work atmosphere. Identify what distracts you the most while working and take proactive steps to reduce or remove these distractions. This could involve setting limits with technology, finding a quiet workspace, or utilizing productivity tools to maintain focus.
Employ Mindfulness Techniques and Self-Reflection:
Mindfulness techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises can enhance your focus and concentration, making it easier to resist the temptation to procrastinate. Additionally, regular self-reflection on your progress, acknowledging small victories, and learning from setbacks can help you stay driven and dedicated to conquering procrastination.
Pursue Accountability and Support:
Lastly, pursuing accountability from others or collaborating with a mentor or coach can offer external motivation and support in overcoming procrastination. By sharing your goals with someone else and regularly updating them on your progress, you are more likely to stay accountable and driven to work towards transforming your weakness into a strength.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used in Answering this Question:
Harvard Business Review: The Harvard Business Review delivers evidence-based insights and strategies for personal growth, productivity enhancement, and overcoming hurdles like procrastination.
Psychology Today: Psychology Today provides expert guidance on understanding human behavior, including the psychology of procrastination and practical tips for habit change.
Forbes: Forbes discusses topics related to leadership growth, self-improvement, and success strategies that can be applied to transform weaknesses into strengths like overcoming procrastination.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos.
Joanna Rose Mañaol, CPA, CISA
IT Auditor
200
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Joanna Rose’s Answer
Hello Derek,
Turning a weakness into a strength involves a few key steps: self-awareness, targeted improvement, and consistent practice. First, clearly identify your weakness by reflecting on feedback from colleagues, performance reviews, or personal observations. Next, develop a plan to improve in this area, which might include training, mentorship, or tackling tasks that specifically address this weakness. Consistent practice and seeking out challenges that test this skill will help solidify the progress, turning a former weakness into a new area of competence and confidence in your professional toolkit.
Turning a weakness into a strength involves a few key steps: self-awareness, targeted improvement, and consistent practice. First, clearly identify your weakness by reflecting on feedback from colleagues, performance reviews, or personal observations. Next, develop a plan to improve in this area, which might include training, mentorship, or tackling tasks that specifically address this weakness. Consistent practice and seeking out challenges that test this skill will help solidify the progress, turning a former weakness into a new area of competence and confidence in your professional toolkit.