I’ve been using the first version of “My Practical Tools for Overcoming Procrastination” from my blog, and it has helped me a lot. Over time, I’ve discovered another key strategy that works for me—protecting my mood.
Why Mood Matters
I’ve learned that my emotional state plays a big role in whether I take action or avoid tasks.
- When I feel happy and calm, I’m more motivated and productive.
- When I feel down or irritated, I tend to avoid everything and turn to comfort activities—like watching movies or doing nothing at all.
Low Mood, Low Action
Last week, I was skating with one of my students after an ice hockey coaching session. I felt great—until a staff member asked me if I had paid to use the rink.
- I was surprised. As a coach, I didn’t expect to pay.
- I told him, “No, I’m a coach here. The other coach didn’t pay—why should I?”
- But I was wrong. I misunderstood the policy—I should have paid.
Instead of brushing it off or seeking clarity, I let the situation affect me:
- I felt embarrassed, misunderstood, and annoyed.
- I ended up spending the whole day watching movies and doing nothing else.
- My mind kept replaying the incident, and my mood stayed very low.
Good Mood, High Action
A few days later, after completing a 3-hour ice hockey training session, I felt fantastic:
- I was satisfied, energised, and in a good mood.
- That same day, I completed all the tasks on my list—even the leftover ones from the day before.
This made me realise something important:
A positive emotional state leads to action and productivity.
A negative emotional state leads to procrastination and avoidance.
My New Focus: Protecting My Mood
Since this realisation, I’ve started paying closer attention to how I feel throughout the day. I follow a simple rule now:
- Whatever happens, I do my best to protect my mood.
- I choose thoughts, actions, and responses that help me stay in a calm, happy, or neutral state.
- Even when something upsetting happens, I remind myself not to let it take over the rest of the day.
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