How to Avoid Procrastinating

Maybe you’ve got a big assignment to do, or perhaps it’s that looming work presentation… Whatever it is, the biggest threat to your sanity is good old procrastination. But the good news is that you can avoid procrastinating with a few easy tricks. Ready?

1. Turn your data off – Shocking, we know, but this trick is simple and effective. It might be going too far to turn your phone off, so the next best thing is your data. At least for all the social media accounts and apps that send you constant notifications. It’s just temporary, don’t freak out.

2. Picture your future self – Some psychologists believe procrastination is a form of mental self harm because the only person you’re hurting is yourself. So, think of your future self and your impending deadline making life hell for them. Strangely, this approach can actually help…

3. Set a, social, deadline – Sure, your assignment is due tomorrow, but by getting a new outfit and organising a fun night out with your mates tonight, you’re actually pushing yourself to finish the project by tonight so you can go out and have some fun.

4. Break it down – It’s much more palatable to break down your project or assignment into bite-sized pieces that you can cross off a list. It can be as small as ‘research’, or ‘work out the structure’. Anything that is small enough to sound doable.

5. Aim for done, not perfect – A lot of people get sucked into the details but most experts agree that the best approach is to get everything down on paper first. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect, just finishing the first draft is the goal. Then have a break and go back and refine your work until you’re happy.