STOP scrolling, START striving (for success)!
Happy 2025! As the spring semester approaches, I wanted to share my PERSONAL tips for combatting procrastination. Procrastination is the delay of active work in exchange for instant gratification. Examples include scrolling on Instagram instead of studying for a test, texting friends instead of locking in, etc.
Here's how I tackle procrastination:
1. Intrinsic motivation. No one can motivate YOU except...YOU! Understand that you are attending college for a reason, whether it's for graduate school aspirations, learning intriguing subjects you always wanted to delve into, or setting yourself up for a stable life (no shame in doing that!). Introspecting and writing down your goals makes your brain remember WHY you have to study and achieve good grades. Build motivation from within, and any extrinsic factors that distract you will no longer be alluring as before.
2. STOP trying new, trendy study methods. Yes, I know there are many methods and techniques that influencers swear by, and yes some may work for you. However, if it's the motivation part you are lacking that causes procrastination, an altered timing sequence for your study session will simply not solve everything. If studying for 2 hours and taking a 10-minute break is optimal for you, do that! If studying without breaks (but for a shorter duration) works better for you, do that! If having a rest day once a week helps you have a bit of fun outside of classes, do that as well! There is no NEED to try out every study method and analyze small changes in your productivity. That in itself could cause a loss of grind time. Just build some intrinsic motivation, shut off your phone, and get to work without the anxiety of trying out a new study method that is supposed to magically make you a genius. YOU know yourself the best.
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Procrastination can be a huge barrier to success, especially for students. To combat it, first recognize the underlying causes. Often, distractions like social media and a lack of clear goals stimulate procrastination. Establishing intrinsic motivation can significantly enhance your focus and commitment. Consider setting tangible, achievable goals that remind you of your purpose in studying. Another effective strategy is to create a structured study routine that caters to your personal productivity patterns. Instead of blindly following popular study methods, evaluate what truly works for you. Prioritize consistency over experimentation; study in blocks of focused time with breaks suited to your rhythm. Additionally, ensure your study environment is free from distractions. This means minimizing smartphone notifications, finding a quiet space, and creating a dedicated study area. Remember that breaking large tasks into smaller, manageable segments can also diminish feelings of overwhelm, making it easier to start. Lastly, don't forget the power of self-compassion—if you slip into procrastination once in a while, it's okay! What matters is your commitment to get back on track.