Rest Area 2 Miles (Next Rest Area 56 Miles)

Traveling around the state is one of the things I love most about my job.  I like being in the car, listening to some good tunes, and mentally preparing for what I hope will be a good day of visits with my agents.  Drinking a cup of coffee, or two, or three or let’s face it – a whole pot – is part of my morning routine.  Can’t really live without it nor do I want to.  It’s a comfort thing for me; I love holding one of my many favorite mugs filled with one of my favorite beverages.  The down side of this lovely addiction I have is that I have memorized every rest area on US131 and I94 across our mitten state; and a lot of times I actually procrastinate my stop, testing myself to see if I can make it until the next one.

Why?  Why do I do that to myself?  Procrastination is something that I’m guilty of when the task at hand is not enjoyable or fun or I feel like I have more important things to tend to.  Sound familiar?  Then keep reading.  Here are a few tips on how to handle the tasks that sometimes get put off until the last possible minute, causing undo stress and tension minutes before your deadline is due:

1. Piece by piece (no I’m not talking about how to eat pie).  Handle your project one piece at a time instead of trying to do the entire thing all at once.
2. Schedule it!  “I’m so busy” is a reason we procrastinate.  But, if you’re anything like me, I live by my calendar; try scheduling a time when you can work on your project (and no, not the day it’s due).
3. Get clarity.  Is the project confusing?  Not sure what you are supposed to do?  Ask!  If you need help getting started because you are uncertain of what’s expected, get some clarity around it.
4. Boring!  We all hate the boring task/project.  As I say, hot red poker in my eye!  But, try and do something that will make it less boring.  Listen to music, call a friend, try doing the task during your most productive time during the day, set a time on how long you think it’s going to take and then try and beat your time.  Make the best of it.

Sometimes procrastination can be a good thing but why wait to see if it is?  Quit putting your task off and try one of the above methods.  As for me, I’m going to try using all these tips.  And while I’m on the road, I’m choosing option #2 – scheduling my rest area stops!

About the Author : Erin Herson, Underwriting & Agency Relations Manager

Erin Herson joined J.M. Wilson in 2009.  She is responsible for underwriting, teaching Continual Education courses, as well as establishing and developing new agency relationships.  She loves the people that she works with and finding creative solutions to their needs.  Outside of the office, Erin enjoys working out, spending time with her children, golfing, cooking, and of course, shopping.

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