Dear Ellie: Procrastination Contemplation
October 12, 2016
Procrastination is a problem that, unfortunately, many of us struggle with. I have had many issues putting off what I need to do as much as I can. Here are a few things that have helped me lessen my procrastination, along with suggestions from my friends.
Organize a group study. Make some friends in your class and propose a hang out time for an hour or two. This can be at the library or somewhere that works for everyone. Suggest that you all pitch in for pizza or something to eat and make it a little more enjoyable.
Use time management to make sure you still have fun. If you have a large project due in a few days, pace yourself and take breaks to avoid burning out. Break up your work with rewards you can look forward to when you complete
a task.
Do one part every day until you finish and work on it a little bit leading up to the deadline. Look forward to how light your load will be the night before it’s due. Picture how every small thing you do now, is one less thing to do later.
Give your mobile device to a friend. Keeping your phone out of reach will help you focus. This can be a way for you to lessen distractions and keep on task.
Shia LaBeouf it. Nike it. Whatever you call it, just do it. For many people, that is easier said than done, but if you literally just sit down and bust it out, you can get your work done.
There are many ways to go about getting your work done. How you do it is up to you.
If you still have problems with procrastination, feel free to contact a student advisor or your academic advisor for advice on what to do. The University Center is full of resources that are available to everyone. Best of luck.
—Ellie Weidner
If you have any questions about anything whether it’s life, love, relationships or school, send an email at [email protected]. We don’t promise anonymity but we will try!
lia • Oct 13, 2016 at 10:41 am
I’ve been struggling with procrastination for the last 10 years and read countless books and self help methods. Here is what I’m having best results with. First of all, procrastination bulldozer method has worked wonders for me. I highly recommend you apply it. Secondly, whenever you have a task that takes less than 5 minutes to do, do it right away. No delays. I’m really starting to take control of my life now.