Beating procrastination- Using habits and strategies to get everything done

A lot of people struggle with procrastination. The method of procrastination may vary —some people clean to avoid other tasks, while others spend extra time binge-watching TV shows— but the result is the same. The tasks you need to do aren’t done when they should be. This can cause problems, like having to rush to finish something or having to drop other tasks. In some cases, it can lead to lower achievement, feelings of guilt, and a cycle of stress.

The good news is that there are techniques that can help you stop procrastinating, such as those that follow:

• Create a study schedule. Be specific about WHEN you plan to study, WHAT you will study and WHERE you plan to do it.
• Just get started. Motivation builds the closer you get to completing a task. Mustering enough motivation to get things started can be the biggest challenge. Once you have started a task, you will find the task easier to work on.
• Put down your phone. Every video on TikTok will likely appear more interesting than the assignment you’re trying to finish. Limit yourself to using only the technology you need to complete your task.
• Focus on the process rather than just the product. If the thought of working on a big assignment is so intimidating that you can’t get started, try breaking it into smaller chunks. Each smaller piece will feel more manageable than the whole.
• Try an “hour of power”. Set aside an hour to work on a task. Set a timer and then work on the task for one hour straight with no distractions. A time limit encourages you to finish the task faster rather than dragging it out over an entire afternoon of half-working.

For more tips to help you avoid procrastination, watch the video below.

Want to learn more strategies? Check out our other study skills tips.