You’re sitting at home, at the library, or wherever else, and you can’t seem to get on task. Why is this? What’s making this assignment or study session seem so horribly unpleasing? Here are some reasons as to why looking at pictures on Facebook or recipes on Pinterest seems more appealing than writing that paper or studying for your quickly approaching midterm.
The task seems too difficult. Oftentimes, when faced with an assignment, task, or obligation, people tend to overestimate the amount of work it requires. What people fail to realize is that once you start, the task isn’t as daunting as previously made out to be. Usually, if you just start the task, it won’t be that bad. You’ll be finished before you know it.
Something is distracting you. Whether it’s your phone, the Internet, or a bothersome thought in the back of your mind, something might simply be holding your attention and interest more than your assignment can. To fight this, go to a quiet place, turn off your phone, or write/talk about what’s bothering you (or all of the above) before you try to get any work finished. Having a clear mind and environment greatly aid in productivity.
You are tired. People throw this excuse around frequently, but sometimes this is a viable reason for distraction. If you’re struggling to keep your eyes open, you probably need sleep; go take a nap. If a nap isn’t feasible at that moment, or your exhaustion isn’t this extreme, drink coffee or work out. Caffeine is, of course, a quick fix, but working out will help clear your mind, energize you, and put you in a better mood.
These are just a few common reasons for the unsolicited urges of procrastination. Of course, these aren’t the only reasons everyone puts off their work, but are most likely the roots of several other motives.
If you do find yourself pushing your work off another day, or even just another hour, the simplest and most effective way to fight procrastination is to get started. Don’t worry or overwhelm yourself. Put in the time and focus, and you’ll get it finished eventually. Like Nike has told us for years: Just Do It.
Photo Source: http://www.collegenews.com/article/5_cures_for_procrastination_at_college