How to Stop Procrastinating | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Student Life

How to Stop Procrastinating

Five ways to get your stuff done

10
How to Stop Procrastinating
Huffington Post

Let’s face it: we all procrastinate. Anything can distract us from completing our daily objectives and goals, no matter how big or small. Below are five reasons why we students procrastinate:

1. The study space.

Smart students know that the best place to get your work done is a place that’s comfortable and where you won't get easily distracted; however, a bed doesn’t constitute as an effective study place. It’s best to complete a project or assignment on a desk or table because, truth be told, you’re not going to study well in your bed. You will nap, read, eat, Netflix, and sleep astoundingly in your bed, but not to study.

Additionally, I’ve noticed that I procrastinate when there are a lot of things laid out on a study table. This can be overwhelming and contribute to a loss in

concentration. Instead of putting every book or folder onto the table, take out a single object, such as a folder or notebook. If you need to read a chapter then the book should be the only thing out. Keep it minimal for maximum effectiveness.



2. Acknowledge your Netflix addiction.

Many of us have been there. The words “just one more episode” echo throughout our heads, thinking that after that last episode of Grey’s Anatomy or Stranger Things you will happily stop mid-season to go do some homework you may or may not cry about while doing it. It’s best to acknowledge that you may have a Netflix addiction, and

should seek treatment by exiting from the program.


3. The Hunger Games.

At some point during the study time, you feel empty inside, and fill the void with food. Eventually, you leave the room and get food, come back, and an hour or two has been wasted. In all honesty, I fall for this trick all the time. You should eat something light in-between meals, and before studying or working on an assignment. I’ve noticed when I have something to eat two hours beforehand, I am able to focus and not interrupt my studying.

4. Long Deadlines.

When a professor assigns something that’s due in a month, most likely students (unless they’re overachievers) will probably begin the assignment a week before the due date. Most likely they will get the assignment complete the week of the due date. With such a long period of time to complete an assignment, students mentally set aside the assignment, focusing on more relevant things. I believe that when assignments are due earlier, such as two weeks, students are more inclined to complete them sooner.


5.The relationship with your phone.

If you’re like me, I will read a section of a textbook, then try to reward myself with a certain time on social media. Whether it’s social media, or just getting text messages from friends or significant others, it can be hard to finish your work. Sometimes, you’ll simply have to turn your phone off and set it aside in your book bag.

So those are just some reasons why students may procrastinate. What are some other reasons, and what are the solutions to them?

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

18432
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

7840
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

5734
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

4972
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments