Procrastination Technique 5: Master of the Obvious

A Technique for Doing Less Work

In the art of procrastination, there's a fine line between being productive and being a slacker. But with Technique 5, you'll never have to choose. Simply declare your intention to do something, and then... declare it louder.

Step 1: Say it with conviction

• Repeat your goal out loud three times: "I will write a novel!"
• Repeat it with increasing emphasis: "I WILL WRITE A NOVEL!"

Step 2: Add a dramatic pause

• Take a deep breath, and then stare off into space for 5 minutes

Step 3: Declare it again

• Repeat your goal with an air of authority: "I WILL. WRITE. A NOVEL."

Learn more about Technique 6: The Art of Pretending to Be Busy

Or, read about Technique 9: The Power of Doing Absolutely Nothing