Just like any other problem, owning up to the fact that you're a true procrastinator is the first step to overcoming it. Procrastinators generally do know what actions need to be taken to overcome a problem or challenge, but for some reason avoid it. They can easily find reasons for delaying their actions, and commonly delude themselves into believing that their schedule is just too busy to get to everything.

We've put together some of our favorite tips towards taking that first step to overcoming procrastination and all the consequences that come with it.

Plan first, act second: Start off with a written plan of action. You may even want to write down some bigger goals that will help you focus on the overall picture. Putting your plan onto paper can help you avoid distraction. Keep it simple and straightforward and limit yourself to what must be accomplished during one day, or just several hours so the list doesn't become overwhelming. Balance your time planning with time spent doing. You can help with this by scheduling 10 minutes at the end of your day to review your progress.

Don't bite off more than you can chew: don't put any "to-do" on your list that takes more than 30 minutes. If it's going to take longer than your allotted 30 minutes, it is most likely a group of smaller activities that can be broken down into smaller duties. You don't have to tackle all the steps to complete one whole project in one sitting. Spread it out over several sessions. Procrastination is often accompanied by the thought that everything must be done perfectly. It's ok to move on after accomplishing a task. Progress is more important than perfection for now.

Get on with it: It's time to act. You've got the list, you've planned your day, now jump in. Start with the worst job first. Get it out of the way so you can focus on tasks that may be more enjoyable and interesting to you. You can set time limits on bothersome tasks so you can meet your goals (i.e. Filing paperwork for 5-10 minutes before giving yourself a break from the monotony).

Interruptions happen: Interruptions tend to happen in patterns. Take notice of how they occur, who is involved and why they are happening and then take steps to prevent those distractions before they occur.

Keep it fun: It's easier to work in an environment that is comforting and pleasant. Play music, keep the window open for a fresh breeze and keep a cold drink available if needed. An organized workspace allows you to focus without visual distractions so give yourself a minute to get cleaned up and ready for the day.

Reward yourself: Rewarding your accomplishments, even small tasks, is a great way to encourage productivity. Give yourself a break, a treat or anything else that is rewarding for you. The bigger the accomplishment, the bigger the reward. Along the way, take time to check in with someone that will hold you accountable for your tasks. Let them help you keep on track when you start to feel overwhelmed or distracted

Overcoming a habit of procrastination takes effort. As you must have learned the bad habit over time, so must you learn you're new, improved habits over a period of time. Have patience with yourself as you embark on this new journey. It's worth the time, money and reduced levels of stress that will follow when you start jumping on tasks with enthusiasm and control. You'll be amazed what you can accomplish in a day with your new level of structure and organization.