Many people experience procrastination at one point in their lifetime. Procrastination is often not about being lazy since we are often working long and hard before our deadlines. To overcome procrastination, first understand why you are procrastinating. As always, awareness of the problem is the first step to solving it. Some other tips to avoid procrastination include creating a calendar, finding your flow, setting a timer, and avoiding distractions. 

Create a Calendar

Creating a calendar can help you keep all your deadlines in order. In addition, try to write down in your calendar when you want to finish all of your due dates by- preferably a day or two before your assignments are actually due. Creating a calendar can be fun too! You can buy one that matches your style at Paper Source, custom-make one online, or even draw one yourself. This can help you to stay organized and be on top of your deadlines in a creative, fun way.

Find Your Flow

It’s important to find your flow and source of motivation. Ask yourself “What’s in it for me?” Think of your goals, both short-term and long-term. Why are you doing this project? Is it to help you get one step closer to a college degree? Is it a work project helping you get one step closer to your dream job? Keep your goals and motivations close to heart and it can help give you that extra push to finish your assignment. 

Set a Timer

Break your tasks into smaller tasks by setting a timer. The Pomodoro Technique is actually one of the most popular ways to overcome productivity. This technique is where you set your timer for 25 minute intervals and focus on a single task until the timer rings. Then, set a timer for a five minute break. After your break do this again for four more times before you allow yourself a bigger break. There is a Pomodoro app in the Appstore that you can download which can help tell you automatically when each interval ends.

Avoid Distractions

While you’re working on assignments, be sure to avoid distractions. One of the most common distractions can be social media. Be sure to turn off your cell-phone while doing work or limit the amount of time you can spend on social media. Iphones allow you to set a timer for how long you can be on social media for the day and will automatically limit your screen time for each category you use. Try to stay focused on your task at hand without any outside distractions from friends, the television, texts, and more. A good way to do this is to follow The Pomodoro Technique talked about above.

Life Balance Therapy

If procrastination has been something you’ve been struggling with for a while, seeking outside support may help, as there might be a bigger issue at play. Chriselda Santos is a licensed psychotherapist and certified life coach and is ready to help. If you are interested in learning more about Chriselda’s approach to therapy, or you want to book an appointment, visit her website.