How to fight laziness: 10 tips from experienced freelancers

March 28, 2024 3 min read

Psychologists argue that laziness is one of the body’s defense mechanisms. When we experience a sense of apathy and a strong reluctance to do what we should, it’s essentially a signal from the body indicating a need for rest. But what can you do when tasks are pressing and work won’t complete itself? If you’ve encountered this problem and can’t seem to motivate yourself, let’s explore how to combat laziness and question its very existence.

Why Does Laziness Arise?

Accumulated Fatigue: Fatigue and moral exhaustion can accumulate unnoticed, with lack of sleep often being compensated for by overeating. However, this is unsustainable. Returning to work with renewed enthusiasm is only possible after taking adequate rest.
Blurred Goals: It’s challenging to start moving toward a goal when it’s not clearly defined. We often lack the motivation to act when we don’t understand the purpose behind our tasks.
Energy Deficit: Engaging in numerous low-priority tasks can be surprisingly draining. They may seem insignificant individually, but collectively, they consume a significant amount of energy.
Lack of Self-Control and Discipline: Procrastination is a common struggle; combating it requires finding personalized strategies for enhanced productivity.
Unloved Work: Boredom with routine tasks, lack of inspiration from salaries, or outgrowing one’s role can lead to a desire for change.
Work-Life Imbalance: Unlike traditional employees who separate their professional and personal lives, freelancers often blend the two, making it difficult to find meaningful rest.
Fear: Occasionally, what we perceive as laziness is actually fear—fear of failure, not meeting expectations, or not achieving desired outcomes. Acknowledging this fear and adjusting our expectations can be beneficial.
Lack of Motivation: If you believe that motivation leads to discipline rather than the reverse, this could be a contributing factor to your inertia.
Health Problems: Conditions such as anemia, vegetovascular disorders, vitamin deficiencies, low blood pressure, or general lethargy can sap one’s energy.
External Circumstances: While we can’t control everything that happens around us, we can learn to adjust our attitude towards these events. Focusing on what we can change, rather than on uncontrollable factors, is key.

How to Overcome Laziness?

Understanding the root cause of your laziness is the first step to overcoming it. Here are some strategies to help you fight this state:

Time Management: Mastering the art of managing your own time can simplify your life. Plan your day, ensuring to include time for rest.
Break Down Complex Tasks: Dividing a daunting task into simpler steps can help reduce stress and make the task seem more manageable.
Deadlines: Setting a timeline for each task can aid in prioritization. Choose realistic deadlines to avoid unnecessary stress.
Ritual: Establishing a pre-work ritual, such as a warm-up, affirmations, or listening to favorite music, can signal the start of the workday.
Exercise: Regular physical activity can serve as a mental reset, improving mood and overall well-being.
Encouragement: Acknowledge your accomplishments and reward yourself with something enjoyable, like a treat, a walk, or a vacation.
Adequate Sleep: Following a consistent sleep schedule is crucial for maintaining effectiveness and balance.
Achievable Goals: Set realistic goals to avoid self-criticism later.
Change of Scenery: The flexibility to change your work environment is a significant advantage for freelancers. This can be as simple as moving to a different room or as refreshing as working from a park or café.
Team Bonding: Although freelancing can be isolating, finding ways to connect with colleagues, such as virtual coffee breaks, can enhance a sense of community and motivation.

Remember, laziness, like any condition, arises from certain causes and can be addressed. By understanding its origins and applying these strategies, you can take steps to overcome it and enhance your productivity.