How to be a productive procrastinator.(Knight Ridder/Tribune News Service)

Productive procrastination sure sounds like an oxymoron, don't you think? Well, I've nearly perfected a way to make procrastination pay. And I'd like to share it with you. Here's how to turn delay into accomplishment.

First, you have to recognize and admit when your delay tactics are actually procrastination, cleverly, or not so cleverly, disguised. Next, you have to ask yourself, "Am I ever going to do what I've avoided?" Third, you must be aware of the actual deadline for completion of the object of procrastination. With these answers in hand, you're ready to make procrastination pay. The only part of this process that isn't fun is the honesty part if you enjoy ...