We procrastinate when we are in a negative mood. To motivate ourselves, we need to work to get ourselves in a happier mood. Happiness increases productivity and makes us more successful.

One way to increase optimism and lift our mood is through the “Progress Principle”. Celebrate any progress made, no matter how trivial. (Yeah, even if there are setbacks, focus on the progress.) Rejoice – even if you are alone.

Celebrate any progress. Especially, the small wins. Throughout a project, there are way more small wins than huge breakthroughs. So, you’ll be celebrating more often. And being more productive. (Tip: break down big goals into smaller chunks – so that there are progress celebrations more frequently.)