Tutorial Learning Centre

Procrastination is:

• The avoidance of doing a task that needs to be done (usually by doing low-priority tasks like socializing, watching television, cleaning, etc.)
• A habit
• Learned and can therefore be unlearned
• A choice

Procrastination leads to stress and poor performance and increases feelings of guilt, inadequacy, depression and self-doubt.

How can you conquer procrastination?

• Are your goals and priorities clear?
• Are they really your goals, or are they goals others have set for you?
• Are your goals realistic?

How are you procrastinating? List the activities that you become involved in when you are avoiding getting your work done, where this occurs and when:

Step 3: Take action now. Decide on one or two strategies that you will use to help combat procrastination:

• Set clear, realistic goals. Write them down in your Day Planner. Keep your Day Planner on your desk while doing homework so that your homework and exam schedule is visible.
• Make a daily to-fo list and prioritize your tasks. Write the list in your Day Planner, labeling each item with A (top priority), B (things you would like to accomplish) or C (tasks that can wait if they are not complete today). Always work on A priority items first.
• Work in a distraction-free environment. If there are too many distractions at home, stay at school or go to a library.
• Complete work first, then reward yourself.
• Use the 5-minute method. Commit to doing homework or studying for 5 minutes; after 5 minutes decide whether you're going to continue or not. (Usually you will!)
• Take frequent breaks. You will actually accomplish more if you work for shorter periods of time with frequent breaks rather than for one long block of time. Reward your hard work by taking a break every 30 minutes or so, but remember not to get involved in an activity that will be hard to break away from.
• Break major tasks into smaller pieces and take one step at a time. Start with the most difficult or boring task and get it over with first.
• Make procrastination obvious. Put your to-fo list on the fridge, leave your Day Planner open on the table, or leave your books out in a central location.
• Challenge the faulty thinking that allows you to procrastinate. Keep your list of procrastinating behaviors handy and take note of when you are procrastinating. Watch for statements such as, "I don't feel like doing this right now" or "It can wait until later."
• Get enough sleep, eat regular, nutritious meals and snacks and exercise to control stress. This will help give you the energy needed to stay on track.
• Do it now. Commit to action and get started.