Avoiding Avoiding a Task

[Note the text below was put together from numerous trials of ChatGPT at Writesonic.com. It is surprisingly weak at providing its own references.]

Using inline APA references and providing a list of sources with links, what are the top things you can do to get going on an important project you are avoiding?

To get started on an important project that you're avoiding, there are several things you can do. First, break the project down into smaller, more manageable tasks (Gino, 2020). This can help make the project feel less overwhelming and more achievable. Next, set specific goals and deadlines for each task (Steel, 2007). This will help you stay on track and make progress towards completing the project.

It may also be helpful to eliminate distractions and create a dedicated workspace (Baumeister, 2019). This can help you focus on the task at hand and minimize procrastination. Additionally, consider seeking support from a friend or colleague (Grant & Hoffman, 2011). Having someone to hold you accountable and provide encouragement can be motivating.

Finally, be kind to yourself and celebrate small successes along the way (Fredrickson, 2001). Remember that progress is progress, no matter how small.

References:

Baumeister, R. F. (2019). Willpower: Rediscovering the greatest human strength. Penguin.

Fredrickson, B. L. (2001). The role of positive emotions in positive psychology: The broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions. American psychologist, 56(3), 218-226.

Gino, F. (2020). Sidetracked: Why our decisions get derailed, and how we can stick to the plan. Harvard Business Review Press.

Grant, A. M., & Hoffman, E. (2011). When seeing is believing: The role of task visualization and task interdependence in the relationship between positive feedback and task performance. Journal of Applied Psychology, 96(6), 1205-1217.

Steel, P. (2007). The nature of procrastination: A meta-analytic and theoretical review of quintessential self-regulatory failure. Psychological bulletin, 133(1), 65-94.

Using inline APA references, What are the top things I can do right now to get going on an important project I am avoiding?

Here are some tips that may help you get started on an important project that you have been avoiding:

1. Break the project into smaller, more manageable tasks: This can help make the project feel less overwhelming and easier to tackle (Locke & Latham, 2019).

2. Set specific, measurable goals: By setting clear goals for each task, you can measure your progress and stay motivated (Locke & Latham, 2019).

3. Create a schedule or timeline: This can help you stay on track and ensure that you are making progress towards your goals (Duckworth & Seligman, 2005).

4. Eliminate distractions: Find a quiet space and remove any distractions, such as your phone or social media notifications (Rosen, Carrier, & Cheever, 2013).

5. Reward yourself for completing tasks: Give yourself a small reward for completing each task, such as taking a break or treating yourself to something you enjoy (Ariely & Wertenbroch, 2002).

Remember, getting started is often the hardest part. By taking small steps towards your goal, you can build momentum and make progress.

References:

Ariely, D., & Wertenbroch, K. (2002). Procrastination

Locke, E. A., & Latham, G. P. (2019). New developments in goal setting and task performance. Routledge. https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/e/9781351311966 Duckworth, A. L., & Seligman, M. E. (2005). Self-discipline outdoes IQ in predicting academic performance of adolescents. Psychological science, 16(12), 939-944. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1467-9280.2005.01641.x Rosen, L. D., Carrier, L. M., & Cheever, N. A. (2013). Facebook and texting made me do it: Media-induced task-switching while studying. Computers in Human Behavior, 29(3), 948-958. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0747563212003455