How AI Can Help You Get Things Done (Even When You’re Deep in Procrastination Mode

How AI Can Help You Get Things Done (Even When You’re Deep in Procrastination Mode

August 13, 20253 min read

Okay, let’s be real:
Sometimes, even the simplest task feels like climbing a mountain in flip-flops. You know it needs to get done—but suddenly reorganizing your sock drawer feels wildly urgent. (Been there. Still don’t know why I own that many socks.)

Here’s the good news: You don’t need superhuman motivation to get going.
You just need a little nudge. And surprisingly?
AI is really good at that.

Let me show you how I use it to snap out of my procrastination spirals—and you can try it too.


🧠 1. Let AI Break It Down Into Bite-Size Steps

You know when a task feels too big, so your brain just screams “NOPE”?
Ask ChatGPT (or any AI you like) to break it down.

Try this prompt:

"Can you break down [insert dreaded task] into small, doable steps I can tackle in 10 minutes or less?"

Example:
Instead of “clean the kitchen,” you get:

  • Wipe the counters

  • Load dishwasher

  • Take out trash
    Boom. Suddenly it doesn’t feel so scary.


📋 2. Let It Be Your Cheerleader (No Pom-Poms Required)

Sometimes you just need a little pep talk, especially when you’re dragging.
You can actually ask AI to be motivational. Yes, really.

Try this prompt:

"I'm procrastinating hard—can you give me a short pep talk to help me get moving?"

It’ll send you something kind, encouraging, and maybe a little kick-in-the-pants-ish—but in a nice way. Like that one friend who tells it like it is but still brings snacks.


⏰ 3. Use AI for a Quick Timer Trick

Pair AI with a timer trick like the Pomodoro method. Tell AI what you’re trying to do, and it’ll help you structure it.

Try this prompt:

"Help me create a 25-minute work session with 5-minute breaks to stay focused and stop procrastinating."

And bonus: you can even ask for music or background noise suggestions to stay in the zone.


✍️ 4. Use AI to “Pre-Write” Something You’re Avoiding

Avoiding a task because you don’t know how to start it?
Let AI give you a rough draft. You can always edit later, but that blank page won’t be so intimidating.

Try this prompt:

“I need to write an email to [whoever] about [whatever]. Can you help me get started with a friendly, clear message?”

Done and done. The hardest part is behind you.


❤️ 5. Give Yourself Permission to Start Ugly

Sometimes the reason we procrastinate is perfectionism in disguise.
AI won’t judge your messy first try—it’ll help you clean it up. Just start.

Try this prompt:

“I feel stuck because I want this to be perfect. Can you help me get started even if it’s rough?”

It’ll remind you that progress > perfection every single time.


Final Pep Talk From Me to You:

Procrastination doesn’t mean you’re lazy.
It means your brain needs a little extra love, structure, and support.

And guess what?
AI can actually be that behind-the-scenes buddy that helps you move from “ugh, later” to “huh, that wasn’t so bad.”

So next time you’re stuck staring at a to-do list and wondering if nap counts as productivity (spoiler: it does sometimes), try giving AI a shout.

You might just surprise yourself. 💪


P.S. If you're over 50 and want to learn how to use AI like this—without pressure or tech jargon—I’d love to have you in our free community: AI Journey for Women 50+.

We’re figuring this out together. And we laugh a lot along the way. 💜

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