Procrastination
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your studies? Do you postpone tasks until the last minute despite knowing about the negative consequences it will bring? If so, you are dealing with procrastination. An unwelcome guest in many students’ lives, but there are strategies to manage it.
Procrastination is when you put off things you know you should do and prioritize other less important things instead, for example, watching a series, hang out with friends or scrollthrough social media instead of studying. It is important to take breaks while studying but to procrastinate too much and for too long may lead to negative stress and affect your study results.
Several reasons for procrastination
There are several reasons why we procrastinate, and it is often caused by an overwhelming workload. When we are faced with an extensive task, it can feel daunting, leading us to avoid it as much as possible. High demands on yourself can also contribute, as well as lack of motivation or low impulse control.
Procrastination can cause increased stress and anxiety
Procrastination can lead to negative consequences in several ways, for example you might be more stressed and anxious as the tasks await and the clock is ticking. Procrastination may also affect how you succeed in your studies and lower your academic performance.
Try this to stop procrastinating
- Make realistic plans
Break large tasks into smaller parts and plan a reasonable amount of time for each part. This makes the workload easier to manage and gives you a clear structure. Start small. Do not set too big a goal – that could kill your motivation. - Identify your distractions
Try minimising these while studying. Turn off your phone and create a quiet and tidy study environment. Go to the library if you are easily distracted at home. - Set up rewards to keep up the motivation
When you have finished a task, give yourself time to do something that you really enjoy. - Do not be too hard on yourself
It is important to remember that no one is perfect, and it is ok to have bad days. Do not give up if you only procrastinate one day. - Do you feel an inner resistance when you start studying?
Practice to stay in these negative feelings. Notice how you feel, accept the feelings and practice tolerating that studies can be boring from time to time.
When to seek professional help
If you notice procrastination affects your well-being and your studies negatively, it can be wise to ask for professional help.
At many universities, the Student Health office offer counselling for students who are procrastinating.