When was the last time you submitted an assignment well within the deadline ? Or can you remember the time when you completed your entire syllabus for the semester and came fully prepared for the examination?
The majority of the students deem it all a distant dream. They can sign up for EssayService to ensure the timely submission of assignments. But they should try to solve the problem of procrastination anyway.
As per the recent survey conducted by the American Psychological Association, about 80 to 95% of college students fall prey to procrastination. It is quite common among such students to delay a specific task till the last minute. Ultimately, this practice forces them to pull all-nighters and complete the project anyhow, which worsens their academic performance.
Procrastination has ruined the future of many meritorious students. Experts consider this a serious problem, deep-rooted in the psychology of adolescents. This article explains what procrastination is and how one can overcome it by using some practical and highly effective tips. Let’s scroll down and dive deeper into the details!
Procrastination: Meaning and Cause
Delaying important work and making excuses for the same, even when you know that the task is significant, is called procrastination. You come up with thousands of reasons not to complete the task. Students with this mindset prefer sleeping all day long. Or they spend time binge-watching shows or playing online games.
Experts believe that students who suffer from mental issues, acute stress, or lower self-esteem are more prone to dilly-dallying. Those with a rebellious temperament may also indulge in useless activities instead of focusing on one goal.
Effective task management is one way to avoid procrastination. For example, you can use essay writing services to delegate some of your tedious tasks. This will allow you to focus on important tasks and avoid burnout.
Try These Proven Hacks to Stay Away from Procrastination!
Go For the Zeigarnik Effect
Does it feel too hard to start with a task? Then the Zeigarnik Effect may be just what you need. Push yourself to work over a project or learn a lesson for a mere ten minutes. As per the Zeigarnik Effect, your brain will get into an alert mode and compel you to continue with the task until you complete it. You will notice an urge within to get done with the activity and finish it to experience the ultimate satisfaction.
This trick works wonders for those students who dread to start with a lesson or assignment just because it seems way too intimidating.
Stay Away From Distractions
Is your neighbor too loud? Shut the window and put on noise-canceling headphones. Are you fond of scrolling down Insta and FB newsfeed? Switch off the phone or at least put notifications on silent mode. Let your family and friends know that you are studying and do not want any kind of disturbance.
You cannot even imagine how much these not-so-significant distractions waste your valuable time and encourage you to procrastinate!
Assign Deadlines for Different Activities
So, you have two whole months to complete one of your college assignments. It is highly likely that you will end up delaying the task and will start working on it only as the deadline nears.
To keep procrastination at bay, break the task into parts and set short, achievable deadlines for each. You will be amazed to notice how easily the entire task gets completed much ahead of schedule.
Use the Pomodoro Technique
Cannot concentrate on studies for a long stretch of time? Try the Pomodoro technique to improve your focusing ability. Study for straight 25 minutes and then take a break of five minutes. Repeat the same pattern 3-4 times and then go for a longer break of, say, 15-20 minutes. Frequent but restricted breaks between studies will keep you refreshed, and you won’t resort to procrastination.
Reward Yourself for Small Accomplishments
If you are fed up with this trait of getting distracted, try the incentive technique. Set deadlines for yourself and as you keep accomplishing the mini targets, treat yourself with incentives. For instance, have your favorite ice cream or hot chocolate milk, or go out for a brisk walk. Know that only you can be your biggest cheerleader ever!
Start With the Dreariest Task of the Day
Students generally procrastinate on the task that they hate the most. Suppose you do not like mathematics. Then, most likely, you will be avoiding any assignment or activity related to the subject the entire time. The trick here is to start with the work you dread the most. Once you are done with it, you will be at peace with yourself.
Brag About Your Goals to Friends or Family
Announce your goals to your family and friends. Let them know that you are going to wind up at least two chapters this weekend. The pressure will force you to complete the lessons on time, and you won’t fall into the trap of distractions.
Wrapping Up
You should know that you are responsible for the completion of your syllabus along with different projects and tasks. Either you do them on time, in a relaxed mood, or burn the midnight oil while gulping down coffee.
The latter will always make you feel frustrated and have a severe impact on your mental and physical health. Fret not! The mentioned tips, when practiced regularly, will help you overcome the habit of procrastinating. Win over procrastination and witness improvement in your academic performance soon.
