17 Task Initiation Hacks to Boost Your Work Productivity

Starting tasks can be tough, especially when the list feels endless. I have late-diagnosed ADHD, so am finally feeling comfy in accepting that I struggle with Task Initiation because my brain is spicy like that. But alas, accepting it and not judging myself… doesn’t get the stuff done.

It has helped to not live in a shame cycle, but I needed some additional tricks to actually start the thing that I’m procrastinating when the Executive Dysfunction is slow-rolling.

I've found some hacks that help me get going, and I think they might help you too! We have a few ideas that mention using Shelpful's AI and/or Human accountability services, but that's because we created this service to help with this problem that WE have too. So we can't help but share what works for us! There are other ideas too!

Here are 17 ways to kickstart your work tasks and keep that momentum going. If you didn’t already know… Shelpful offers a free 1 week trial you might want to check out!

1. Morning To-Do List from Shelpful

Imagine waking up to a text with your work to-do list already laid out for you. Your AI buddy from Shelpful can send you your tasks first thing in the morning, making it easier to dive right into your day. You can even ask it questions about the tasks, get help drafting things, or break them down into smaller steps. Super convenient!

2. Mid-Day Task Focus

Feeling the mid-day slump? Have your AI buddy from Shelpful text you and pick one thing off your list to tackle. It’ll estimate the time it’ll take and break it down into 4 fun steps. This keeps you focused and makes the task feel more manageable.

3. Task-Pairing Menu with Music

Get a task-pairing menu texted to you by your AI buddy from Shelpful. It’ll pick 3 tasks from your list and suggest a song for each one. Music makes everything better, right? 🎶

4. NFC Tag for Task-Initiation Bangers Playlist

Scan an NFC tag to start a Task-Initiation Bangers Playlist on Spotify. Then, text your AI Habit Buddy from Shelpful to check in with you in 20 minutes. Brag about what you’ve accomplished—celebrating those small wins is key!

5. The 5-Second Rule

Use Mel Robbins' 5-Second Rule: count down from 5 and just start. It helps overcome hesitation and pushes you into action.

6. Eat the Cake

Do the easiest thing first. Starting with something simple can build momentum and make the larger tasks feel more manageable.

7. Destroy Your Tasks

Write the easiest task on a piece of paper, complete it, then rip it up or burn it (if you have a safe space to do so). It's a fun and cathartic way to mark your progress.

8. The 5-Minute Rule

Commit to working on a task for just 5 minutes. Often, getting started is the hardest part, and once you’re going, you’ll likely keep going.

9. Pomodoro Technique

Set a timer for 25 minutes, work on a task, then take a 5-minute break. Repeat this cycle to maintain high productivity levels without burning out.

10. Visual Progress Tracker

Use a visual tracker like a kanban board to see your tasks move from "To-Do" to "In Progress" to "Done." It's super satisfying!

11. Task Pairing

Pair a work task you’re dreading with something enjoyable. For example, listen to your favorite podcast while you work on a report.

12. Break Tasks into Tiny Steps

Make your tasks so small that they seem almost silly not to do. For instance, instead of “complete the project report,” start with “write the introduction.” You can use HabitGPT or ChatGPT to break it down for you.

13. Accountability Partner

Tell a friend or family member about your task. Even better, Shelpful offers the ability to add a Human Accountability Coach to your conversation. Having someone check in on your progress can be a great motivator.

14. Habit Stacking

Add a new task onto an existing habit. For example, after you finish your morning coffee, spend 5 minutes checking emails.

15. Reward Yourself

Give yourself a reward for completing a task, no matter how small. It could be a piece of chocolate, a quick walk outside, or a few minutes of your favorite game.

16. Use a Timer

Set a timer for how long you think a task will take. This can help you stay focused and work more efficiently.

17. Have AI Take the First Draft

Sometimes your brain prefers to edit or react rather than start from scratch. Use HabitGPT or ChatGPT to draft the first version of a document or email. It won't be perfect, but it’ll give you a starting point.

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Remember, these hacks are all about making small, manageable changes that help you get started and keep going. You've got this! And btw, Shelpful offers a free trial you might want to check out!

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