Decide how you want to procrastinate

Before hitting the trail with a major creative undertaking, consider packing a side project into your saddle. Decide how you want to procrastinate beforehand, and you’ll feel less guilt when you get distracted.

Because you will get distracted.

In TV shows there’s an A plot and a B plot. You spend a scene with Jerry and George, then check in with Kramer or Elaine. The B story has smaller stakes and gives you a break from the main action. But both stories move forward together.

Complex projects can tire you out and you need distance occasionally. Instead of scrolling to the first available diversion, turn to your side project. Both storylines move forward together.