We’ve all been there: staring at our long to-do list, feeling overwhelmed and unsure where to start. Productivity paralysis can strike anyone, at any time and it can be incredibly frustrating. There’s nothing worse than feeling as though you have a million and one things to do and having no idea where to start!
In today’s So Just Be blog, we’re going to look at some strategies for getting over productivity paralysis so that you can start to get things done again. Feeling stuck can be really frustrating, so let’s dive straight in and help you get back on track!
- Take a break:- Strange as it may seem, sometimes the best way to get over productivity paralysis is to step away from the task at hand. Take a short break, go for a walk or do something enjoyable to clear your mind and come back to it with fresh energy.
- Break tasks into smaller chunks:- Big projects can seem daunting, but breaking them down into smaller, more manageable tasks can make them much less overwhelming. By focusing on one task at a time, you can build momentum and make progress.

- Prioritise:- Not all tasks are created equal. Prioritise the most important tasks and tackle them first. It’s also a good trick to start with the tasks that you perceive to be the hardest. Getting these done first will provide you with a sense of accomplishment and motivate you to keep going.
- Set deadlines:- Deadlines can be a powerful motivator. Set a deadline for each task you want to complete and hold yourself accountable to it.

- Get organized:- Working in a cluttered environment can be distracting and make it harder for you to focus. Take some time to get organised, whether it’s decluttering your workspace or creating a to-do list to make your mind feel tidy.
- Remove distractions:- Social media, emails, and other distractions can pull us away from our work. Turn off notifications and put your phone on silent, close unnecessary tabs in your browser and limit environmental distractions to help you stay focused.
- Try the Pomodoro technique:- This technique involves working for 25 minutes, taking a short break, and repeating the process. It can be a great way to stay focused and productive.
- Get some accountability:- Enlist the help of a friend, colleague, or partner to help you stay on track and motivated to get your tasks and projects completed.

- Practice self-care:- Taking care of yourself is essential for maintaining productivity. Make time for exercise, healthy eating, and good sleep to give yourself the energy and focus you need.
- Celebrate small wins:- Celebrating small wins can be a great way to build momentum and keep yourself motivated. Take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate each accomplishment, no matter how small.

- Avoid perfectionism:- Perfectionism can be a major barrier to productivity. Remember that ‘done’ is always better than perfect, and focus on progress rather than perfection.
- Ask for help:- It’s okay to ask for help when you need it. Whether it’s delegating tasks or seeking guidance from a mentor, don’t be afraid to ask for help when you’re feeling stuck.
Productivity paralysis can be a frustrating and overwhelming experience, but there are strategies for getting over it so that you can start to get things done again. By incorporating the tips above into your routine, you can become unstuck and start to achieve your goals. Remember to be kind to yourself and celebrate your progress every chance you get and you’ll get there in the end.
SJB