Getting Started on Tasks
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What is task initiation?
- Task initiation refers to the ability to get started on tasks without delays or hesitation.
- It involves being able to overcome procrastination to begin working on assignments.
- Neurodiverse students may experience additional challenges with task initiation due to executive functioning difficulties, motivational difficulties, and more.
- There is no one-size-fits-all solution. Every person has their unique struggles with task initiation and completion, and understanding this is the first step toward finding a strategy that works for you. You may use different strategies depending on the reason(s) why you are having trouble getting started.
I’m having trouble getting started because…
I don’t know what to do:
- Set clear goals for work or study sessions: Create specific objectives by breaking larger goals into smaller tasks. For example, instead of “write my PWR paper,” specify “create an outline for my PWR paper that includes thesis statements and topic sentences.”
- Create a structured routine: Establish a consistent daily routine that includes specific study/work times. Consistency and automating your routine will reduce the amount of cognitive load and help your brain be ready to work.
- See additional strategies for building routines and managing your time.
I’m struggling to feel motivated:
- Use incentive and rewards: Set up a reward system for completing tasks, such as getting a treat or taking a break to watch your favorite show.
- Gamify tasks: Turn your tasks into a game, setting points for completed tasks to make getting started more appealing. If it’s helpful, you can give yourself a reward once you achieve a certain amount of points.
- See additional strategies for creating meaningful motivation.
I want to avoid a stressful/hard task:
- Start with easy tasks: Begin with simpler tasks that you can complete quickly to build momentum. The sense of accomplishment can motivate you to tackle bigger tasks.
- Use the 5-minute rule: Commit to working on a task for just five minutes. Often, getting started is the hardest part, and you may find it easier to continue once you begin.
- Try body doubling/having an accountability buddy: Working in the same space as another person can help you feel more motivated. It can also be helpful to have another person you can check in with about the progress that you are making.
I keep getting distracted:
- Create a dedicated workspace: Identify a space specifically for working/studying in order to signal that it is time to work. If you get distracted studying in your room (since it’s a place where you rest and relax), try visiting one of the many dedicated study spaces on campus.
- Limit digital distractions: Turn off notifications on your devices and consider apps that block distracting websites during study sessions.
- Create a parking lot/later list: Write down any to-do items you think of in the moment so that you are not tempted to pursue them immediately rather than working on the task at hand.
- See additional strategies for improving focus.
I keep forgetting what strategies to use:
- Include visual aids and reminders in your workspace: Create visual aids (e.g., post-it notes, drawings, lists) with reminders of strategies that you find helpful for getting started. Place these visual aids and reminders in your workspace so that they are easily accessible.
- Use environmental cues: Incorporate specific signals into your environment and routine to signal that it is time to get started. For example, setting an alarm or playing a specific song at a certain time can serve as a reminder to begin a work session.
Improving task initiation can improve your academic performance. Try out different strategies and see what works best for you. Remember that change takes time – be patient and persistent as you work on these skills.
If you would like additional support or want to brainstorm individualized strategies, schedule an appointment with one of our academic coaches!
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Getting Started on Tasks
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