Investment managers are experts at optimizing portfolios, risk management, and operations—but many struggle with consistent business growth.
 

The result is stagnant AUM, missed opportunities, and frustration—even when investment returns are strong.

We continue our Productivity Hack series helping you to take action and get the  sales, marketing, and business development activities out of the "important but not urgent" trap.

We all, to some extent, struggle with the tendency to delay or postpone tasks—often knowing full well that this avoidance may lead to negative consequences.

One of the key downsides of procrastination is the negative bind that comes with it, that nagging voice reminding us we haven’t finished what we’re supposed to, draining our emotional and mental energy.

Procrastination builds a mental backlog, subtly making it harder to focus fully on other tasks. Even when we work on something else, part of our attention remains hijacked by the thing we’re avoiding.

This prevents us from entering a true flow state (our Productivity Hack #2), where creativity, clarity, and high performance thrive. Left unchecked, procrastination becomes a silent saboteur, and damages or misses opportunities build up over time.
 

Overcoming procrastination requires addressing both mental barriers and practical habits.

Here’s the ultimate Nine-Step Procrastination Killer, which works, every time:
 

1. Understand the “Why”

Ask yourself:

• Why am I avoiding this?
• Is it fear of failure? Perfectionism? Boredom?

Understanding the emotional root helps you choose the right fix.

2. Break It Down Into Smaller Steps

Big tasks feel overwhelming. Use the:

• “Next Action” rule: What is the very next small, doable step?
• Turn “Write report” into “Open Google Docs and write one paragraph.”

Small steps lower resistance.

3. Use Time Blocks (Pomodoro Technique)

• Set a timer for 25 minutes: Focus only on that task.
• Then take a 5-minute break.
• This builds focus and momentum with less dread.

4. Start with a “Starter Task”

Sometimes starting anything leads to doing everything.

• If writing is hard, just open the document.
• If cleaning (your desk), just put away one item.

Action leads to motivation—not the other way around.

5. Reframe the Task
 

Instead of “I have to,” say:

• “I choose to…”
• “I’ll just do this for 10 minutes.”

This shifts your brain from resistance to ownership.
 

6. Make It a Habit
 

Use routines:

• Same time each day for key tasks.
• Set a recurring calendar block.

Habits remove the need for constant willpower.

7. Use Accountability

Tell someone your goal or work next to someone else (“body doubling”).

• That’s the “Commitment Buddy” structure clients of the Fundmanager.tools ALL-IN Bundle take advantage of.

8. Limit Distractions

• Turn off notifications.
• Put your phone in another room. Don’t digress fiddling around with the internet or email. Stay focused on the job.

9. Practice Self-Compassion

Beating yourself up fuels more avoidance. Instead, be kind to yourself:

• “It’s okay I’m struggling. Let’s try again.”

Next week’s Productivity Hack #5: Don’t reinvent the wheel

Stay tuned as we’ll show you how to avoid costly trial & error and access the exact strategies the most successful fund managers use to win investor trust, differentiate their fund, and ultimately raise more capital.