Procrastinator's Guide to Getting Things Done

Monica Ramirez Basco, PhD, a clinical psychologist, is Associate Director for Science Policy, Planning, and Analysis at the Office of Research on Women’s Health at the National Institutes of Health. She served as Assistant Director for Neuroscience, Mental Health, and Broadening Participation at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy from 2014 to 2015. Dr. Basco is an internationally recognized expert in cognitive-behavioral therapy and a founding fellow of the Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies. She was formerly on the faculty of the University of Texas at Arlington, where she was awarded the University of Texas Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Award.

"I thought I had my self-defeating procrastination habits under control, but when I saw myself in so many of this book's scenarios, I realized I still have work to do. Fortunately, Dr. Basco provides simple steps to move from overwhelmed to active; from stalling to success. I gained new insights, great reminders, and thoughtful encouragement--all of which have helped me to shift the way I approach tasks and safeguard against falling into the same old traps."--Susan L. Franzen, Director, Leadership Institute, University of Texas System "Do you hold off to the last minute on those less-than-pleasant tasks? Are you typically off by 50% on your 'that-won’t-take-long-I’ve-got-time' estimates? Think you are a capital-P Procrastinator for life? With this guide, you’ll get the quick-and-easy shortcuts around all your excuses. You’ll gain the tools to find your personal stall tactics and the repair kit to fix them. When you’re done, get ready for your reward: efficient productivity and more time for fun."--Reid Wilson, PhD, author of Don't Panic "Filled with examples of people who have overcome procrastination, practical and powerful advice, and helpful forms, this book can help you change your life. Read it and use it--what are you waiting for?"--Robert L. Leahy, PhD, author of The Worry Cure "Turns out it does take one to know one! As a procrastinator of many years, I found observations and examples I could relate to in every chapter. Dr. Basco will help you understand why you keep procrastinating, even though it does more harm than good--and how to beat it once and for all."--Eric A., lawyer"This book is a treasure trove of practical methods to break procrastinating habits. Dr. Basco will inspire you and cheer you on as you learn how to become a 'doer.' I wish this book had been available sooner. It would have saved me many hours and days of spinning my wheels."--Jesse H. Wright, MD, PhD, Professor and Kolb Endowed Chair of Outpatient Psychiatry and Director, Depression Center, University of Louisville- As a lifelong procrastinator, I found this book an amusing, encouraging, and informative read....The Guide enables readers to identify the emotions that are behind their avoidance and the thinking errors and self talk that maintain the problem. It is packed with practical exercises and advice for achieving behavioural change, mixed in with case studies and success stories to illustrate and motivate. The Guide ends with a rallying call to action: goal setting and relapse prevention. Thanks to this excellent self help book, I do now believe the last line of the Procrastinator's Pledge: I can learn to do things differently. --CBT Today Magazine, 12/23/2009

• 1. Why Do I Procrastinate?2. Shortcuts to Help You Get Started3. What Are You Afraid Of?4. Are You Disorganized?5. Moving from Self-Doubt to Self-Confidence6. Procrastination in Relationships7. All-or-Nothing Workers8. Pleasure Seekers9. This Is Just How I Roll!