Just do it… tomorrow. Next week. Next month. Next year. Sounds familiar? The bitter truth is that we all procrastinate. We blame it on the work overload, personal issues, bad bosses, you name it. But there is a way to break the loop. 

If your 2025 resolution is to beat procrastination, read on. Still, you don't have to go hard on yourself. There is no need to wake up and run ten kilometers straight. No need to take on tasks you can't accomplish. There is a better, milder way to fight postponing work—and life. 

This article will advise on proven methods to fight procrastination and stay productive next year. Core idea? Go easy on yourself. Let's look at what procrastination is, how it prevents your growth, and what you can do about it—right now.

What is Procrastination—and How it Hinders your Growth

Procrastination is like standing on the side of the pool, getting ready to jump, but never actually doing so. 

It's constantly delaying tasks, postponing them, and missing deadlines for several reasons. Those could be fear, unhealthy perfectionism, and guilt. When you procrastinate, you'll likely get in the loop and miss great opportunities ahead of you. Procrastination decreases your self-confidence, increases stress and anxiety, and lowers self-discipline. 

However, some forms of procrastination are acceptable—you must maintain a sacred balance. 

Let's look at the tips on beating procrastination.

You Are Not Alone: Famous Procrastinators 

When struggling with procrastination, it is easy to fall into a self-deprecating pattern, thinking that this issue might hold you back from success. But many famous and successful people are, in fact, stellar procrastinators, fighting the same battles. 

Check this out: J. K. Rowling, Bill Clinton, Nassim Taleb, and even Steve Jobs—all of these revolutionary personalities have struggled with procrastination but still made it. 

So, if you are dealing with procrastination, take it easy; you are in good company.  

Fighting Procrastination: 9 Steps to Try Now

The key to dealing with procrastination lies in accepting it. Here's what you can do to be more productive in the upcoming year:

Step 1. Analyze why you Procrastinate

We already talked about it: we all procrastinate. And to some extent, it's perfectly normal. But if you're putting away tasks too often, there might be a problem. 

So, why do you procrastinate? Are you tired? Does the task seem too complicated? Maybe you're not getting enough peer support at work. Try to understand the root cause of the problem. And there come solutions: get some rest, Google the task again, or ask your colleagues to support you. 

Step 2. Understand your Feelings

Some people procrastinate due to the fear of failure or perfectionism. But you're not a machine. You're a living human with feelings, moods, and good and bad days. Try to let it go—you got this. 

Don't be afraid to try dedicated apps to track how you feel. Liven can become your perfect companion, helping you to cultivate selfhood.

Step 3. Eat the Frog

No need to harm the little froggie. This method means you complete the most challenging task right after you wake up and do your morning rituals. As you start the day, you'll likely feel more energetic and enthusiastic, so get to work. Take the task you fear the most. Break it down into smaller tasks. And start working. 

After that, you can break down the steps on your list into smaller ones. Once you're done, you'll be amazed by how easy your day goes!

Step 4. Work out More

Working out could be a powerful tool for finally beating your procrastination. Regular physical training can release large amounts of endorphins, boosting your energy levels and helping you stay productive. Plus, sports contribute to our motivation, discipline, and dedication—a badly needed skill for getting a job done at work. 

Step 5. Delegate Stuff

And this applies to every part of your life, not just jobs. Can you ask someone to do the laundry for you? Walk your dog? Cook dinner? So you have the time to focus on what matters to you. 

If you delegate your work, create a task for your colleagues with all details on what needs to be done. Answer their question, but don't micromanage. Remember to thank your peers for helping you out.

Step 6. Put on Some Music

We all have tracks that put us in the zone. Why not create a good mood for yourself? Whether it's techno, hip-hop, or even folk—put on some great tunes to get the work vibe. Some people create their gym playlists—and the one for work is a good idea, too. 

Do you feel like dancing? Then dance! It's proven that getting some moves can add up to your overall energy. Ask your friends to recommend lovely songs, or go to YouTube. There are lots of playlists that are set to get you in the do-it mood. 

Step 7. Be Careful with Snacks

When procrastinating, you may occasionally feel the need to snack. But wait: Are you hungry or just bored? Many people snack on pizzas, unhealthy soft drinks, and chocolate. The result? A rush of sugar to the blood may lead to a temporary boost of energy but will do your body no good in the long run. 

Try this: snack on healthy meals like carrots, nuts, or green tea with honey. Once you've finished, reward yourself with a snack, but don't overeat. 

Step 8. Go Easy on Yourself

The most important of them all. Are you doing what you love, or is it just money? Can you enjoy what you do? Maybe it's time to rethink your life priorities. 

Choose a job that you genuinely like. Stay compassionate to yourself as you would do to your best friends. Don't cultivate the feeling of shame even if you procrastinate today. Love yourself—it's all that matters. 

Step 9. Just Enjoy Life

Living is a true blessing, and you must learn how to enjoy it. Yes, learn, we mean it.

Get a good night's sleep. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and stay hydrated. Meditate. Have fun with some friends. Enjoy your hobby. Once you start leading a fulfilled life, you'll also feel less inclined to procrastinate. Go out and live it to the fullest.

Bookmark these ideas for a more productive, hustle-free 2025.

Picture this: you live in a private house on the outskirts, and suddenly the alarm system rings. What's that? You come running to see what's happening. It's just a cat passing through your door. In a little while, the system rings again. A bird flying near your house. Then it's a tree stuck in the window. Gets you nervous, right? 

This alarm system is your anxiety. It drains you again and again. It wears you out. You find yourself living in constant anticipation of something horrible when all is well. 

Still, you don't have to let anxiety rule—or ruin your life. Make a pact with yourself that you'll try to lead a more peaceful, mindful life in 2025. In this article, we'll tell you how with 13 techniques. 

You Are Not Alone: Celebrities Struggling With Anxiety 

Sometimes, knowing someone shares the same problem with you feels like a significant relief. Especially when this person is a celebrity who seems absolutely happy on the surface. The reality is even the richest and most glamorous of all struggle with mental health problems, and anxiety is one of the most widespread ones. 

Kristen Stewart, the Twilight star, has come out about struggling with panic attacks and stomachaches back in the day. Another in the row is Demi Lovato. The Camp Rock singer and Disney junior star confessed to struggling with eating disorders, anxiety, and depression. One more celebrity who seems "to have it all worked out" is Lady Gaga, the powerhouse pop singer and songwriter. The pop star has been open about living with anxiety and depression her whole life and even started the foundation to support her fans on their paths to cope with mental health problems. 

How To Recognize Anxiety—And When It Becomes A Problem

Anxiety is a feeling of constant worry that seems to come out of nowhere. This nagging feeling tells you things will go wrong, you'll fail, and there's no way out of your situation. Chronic anxiety may lead to impaired decision-making, trouble sleeping, and overall body tension. 

Well, as harsh as it may sound, we all experience anxiety. You might feel anxious about your next work task or ruminate over the social event you have this weekend. Sometimes, it's natural—you're just nervous. But if you notice anxiety is becoming a part of your daily routine, it's time to act on it. 

Well-being apps like Liven can help you notice your persisting moods or feelings. Open the app, track how you're feeling, and repeat daily. Analyze it in two weeks. It may so happen that you'll need to check in with your healthcare provider to reduce the symptoms of anxiety. 

Coping Mechanisms: 13 Ways To Take Anxiety Under Control

Some proven techniques can help you handle anxiety at home. Let's look at the methods advised by psychology professionals. 

Accept your anxiety and let it be—for a while

If you feel a wave of negative thoughts, allow yourself to feel. Feel everything life throws at you. It's essential to recognize your feelings using the feelings wheel. Are you stressed, restless, or sad? Feel it to the deepest end, and, with time, anxiety will gradually subside. 

The thing is, we usually want to reject anxiety, and this itself creates tension. Acceptance is the key.

The 5-4-3-2-1 method for hard times

Resort to this method when anxiety hits hard and feels like a panic attack. Try to sit down and name five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. 

If anxiety persists, go to another room and repeat the technique. This will help you get into focus and distract you from negative thoughts.

Support your body

Thoughts in your head and body feelings are closely connected. One thought may break your day, leading to harsh body symptoms. 

Support your body with good nutrition by adding lots of fruits, vegetables, and healthy proteins to your diet. Snack on nuts and berries and avoid deeply fried food. 

Get enough sleep in a dark room with your phone turned off. If you find it hard to fall asleep, ask your healthcare provider to prescribe you some pills, like melatonin.

Finally, establish your sports routine, getting at least 40 minutes of active workout twice a week. If you can't, engage in more pleasant activities: walk your dog longer, run with your friends, or try home yoga.

Cuddle your close ones—or yourself

You're the lucky one if you live with your family. Cuddle them at least eight times a day to release oxytocin. This happiness hormone reduces anxiety, promotes a positive mood, and helps you endure tough times. 

If you live by yourself—cuddle yourself. Put your hands on your shoulders and embrace to feel relief. A good option is cuddling before you go to bed. Day by day, you'll grow into your support system.

Use the Brick method

Imagine your anxious thoughts and emotions as objects, such as a brick. Imagine this brick is now inside you. Take a deep breath. Fill your lungs with air so that it seems to envelop the brick. Breathe in slowly. With each breath, the air seems to envelop and hide this object. 

Do this until the brick becomes smaller or is not visible at all.

Declutter your space

Everything is energy, and so are your belongings. Sort your stuff using the "keep, donate, toss" formula.

Keep the things that bring you joy: favorite clothes, books, meaningful decor. Other things you want to donate. Google a local charity shop, gather everything you don't need but that is still in good condition, and pass it on to those who need it most. Toss the things you haven't been using for the last year. 

Try aromatherapy 

Treat yourself to a session of aromatherapy to reduce anxiety. Choose essential oils like lavender, rosemary, and bergamot. Massage them into your body using soft gestures. Pay particular attention to your hands, neck, and temples. 

Before bed, pour several oil drops on a special tissue and tuck it under your pillow. The scents will act on your parasympathetic nervous system, helping create a more profound, slower breathing rhythm for a more restful sleep. 

Use EFT

EFT, or emotional freedom techniques, is also known as tapping. This method involves gently tapping different parts of your body—energy hotspots or meridian points. Typical points would be the top of the head, eyebrows, temples, and chin.

Tapping is said to promote emotional balance and relieve you from anxiety. It's a good idea to make tapping a part of your daily routine, like brushing your teeth. While tapping, say to yourself: "Though I have this problem, I completely accept myself."  

Cut off alcohol 

Most people drink to feel at ease and relaxed, but the morning afterward, it turns out the other way around. Alcohol is one of the most famous depressants, leading to negative thoughts. Plus, overconsumption of alcohol will affect your body: you might gain weight or experience acne. 

If you like the taste, opt for non-alcoholic beer, wine, or champagne. When socializing, explain to your friends you're not drinking for a reason—they're sure to understand. You'll be surprised by how light your body and mind feel the following day. 

Instead of spending a whole lot of money on beers, invest in vitamins and supplements. Omega-3, zinc, and vitamin D will help support your mood and reduce anxious thoughts. 

Spend at least 20 minutes a day outside

Your bed might be a pleasant place to spend time in. Just ensure it's not the whole day you remain in your PJs. Take your friends out for a walk by the river. Spend some time alone in the forest. Or simply stroll around the park listening to your recent playlist. 

Connecting with nature will reduce your anxiety and fill your lungs with fresh air—and thoughts. 

And when you're alone in the forest, you might as well let your emotions go. Cry, shout, and release all the negative energy you've been hiding. No one will judge you. 

Limit your screen time

Let's be realistic: in 2025, you can't go about without your phone. But screen time adds to your anxiety. You can grow jealous of your more successful friends—at least, they seem so on social media. 

Some techniques will help you limit screen time: Delete the apps you don't need, pause non-work-related notifications, and reset your screen to the black-and-white color system; the content will seem less engaging. If you use your phone, opt for self-discovery apps or meditation guides. 

Get a power symbol

Like Harry did in the third book, you can create your own Patronus. But a tangible one. What could it be for you? Some use stones, books, jewelry, or family relics. When you're feeling the anxiety approaching, grab your power symbol and hold it for a while. 

Set up a special space in your room where you keep these items and protect them. Carry your symbol wherever you go—whether commuting to work or meeting up with friends. It's your source of support, ready whenever you need it.

Finally, analyze your thoughts

When you're calm and relaxed, try to analyze your thoughts. What is disturbing you the most? Can you do something about it? What's the worst thing that could happen? Sometimes, our minds create horrors that are never meant to be. 

Put your thoughts on paper, structure them, and let them go. Remind yourself that everything you're going through is temporary—both good and bad. Even if the worst happens, you've got the techniques to cope.