DEAR HARRIETTE: I’ve been putting off a big project — the design for our new municipal hall — for weeks, and now the deadline is fast approaching.
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I am in charge of drafting the design, which needs to be revised before the builders begin the construction process. I’m feeling paralyzed by the pressure and overwhelmed by the thought of failure.
As the deadline draws closer, I feel more and more stuck, and it’s becoming difficult to get started.
I know this is something I need to do, but the fear of not doing it perfectly is holding me back. At times, it feels like I’m making no progress, and at other moments, the pressure becomes too much to bear.
I want to push through this procrastination, but I’m unsure how to break the cycle.
— Overcoming Procrastination
DEAR OVERCOMING PROCRASTINATION: Break your project down into small components of the big picture. Figure out what you can do each day to get you closer to your goal. Check off each accomplishment as you move along. This will give you energy and motivation to keep moving.
Make sure your map has a finish line that is weeks before your actual deadline so that when you reach it, you still have time to tweak.
Ask for help when you need it. Remind yourself that you can do it.
You have the capacity to do this work; otherwise, you wouldn’t have gotten the project. Don’t forget this fact as you get closer to completion.
DEAR HARRIETTE: I recently developed a love for having plants around my home because they add such a refreshing vibe, but I struggle to keep them alive.
People remark that I don’t have a green thumb and that I should give up on this hobby, but I’m determined to prove them wrong.
I’ve done a lot of research on how to care for plants, yet they always seem to wilt or lose their leaves. I’ve tried adjusting the watering schedule and moving them around, but nothing seems to work. I’m wondering if I’m overwatering or not providing enough light, but I can’t seem to figure out the right balance.
I’ve also been concerned about the type of soil and whether I’m using the right pots for drainage.
I really want to create a lush, green space in my home, but I’m starting to lose confidence in my plant-care abilities. I really don’t know whether I should continue with this or just give it up.
— Plant Frustration
DEAR PLANT FRUSTRATION: I have no personal experience to help you; sadly, I have no green thumb.
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My husband does, though. I watch him as he follows a set schedule for watering the various plants we have. Yes, there is research about sun exposure, water and nutrients. You should continue to read up on the plants you have, but also visit a nursery and ask a lot of questions.
Experts tend to relish in sharing tips on plant survival. Commit to learning as much as you can. Get an expert to help you select sturdy plants that don’t need too much attention.
Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.