2 answers
Aarohi
Student
1
Question
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How do I get better at avoiding procrastination?
I feel like no matter what goals I set, I always end up getting distracted in one way or another. I don't understand what I'm doing wrong because I am usually an ambitious student. I really want to find ways to get into the flow state of working and Im not sure how to get into that state.
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2 answers
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1091
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Aarohi,
Many master-procrastinators are undiagnosed ADHD. Could that be the case for you? It might be worthwhile to talk to a professional and get tested. Once you know why you are procrastinating, you can tackle the problem more effectively and look for tips and tricks in the right places, i.e. from other ADHD people.
If that's not it, try to figure out why and when you are procrastinating. Do you have difficulties getting started, but once you are in the zone you can keep going? Or do you get distracted even when you are focused at work? Do you like to work in short bursts, or do you prefer long stretches of uninterrupted concentration? Does it help you to be in a semi-public setting, i.e. have that slight social pressure of other people being able to watch you?
Do you procrastinate when a task seems too boring? Or when a task seems too big and overwhelming? Are you a perfectionist, who can never get things exactly right? I think all of these are different patterns of procrastination.
Just a few ideas.....
For some procrastinators, goal setting, deadlines and rewards work. For some people short bursts of work, i.e. salami tactic work. Others need hours of uninterrupted time to get things done. Some people work well in a library setting or other semi-public places. Setting study hours with another person or a group of people where everyone works on their own tasks can work. You can even sign up to online groups to be paired with another person for dedicated work sessions.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Many master-procrastinators are undiagnosed ADHD. Could that be the case for you? It might be worthwhile to talk to a professional and get tested. Once you know why you are procrastinating, you can tackle the problem more effectively and look for tips and tricks in the right places, i.e. from other ADHD people.
If that's not it, try to figure out why and when you are procrastinating. Do you have difficulties getting started, but once you are in the zone you can keep going? Or do you get distracted even when you are focused at work? Do you like to work in short bursts, or do you prefer long stretches of uninterrupted concentration? Does it help you to be in a semi-public setting, i.e. have that slight social pressure of other people being able to watch you?
Do you procrastinate when a task seems too boring? Or when a task seems too big and overwhelming? Are you a perfectionist, who can never get things exactly right? I think all of these are different patterns of procrastination.
Just a few ideas.....
For some procrastinators, goal setting, deadlines and rewards work. For some people short bursts of work, i.e. salami tactic work. Others need hours of uninterrupted time to get things done. Some people work well in a library setting or other semi-public places. Setting study hours with another person or a group of people where everyone works on their own tasks can work. You can even sign up to online groups to be paired with another person for dedicated work sessions.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hello! To get better at avoiding procrastination, there are some practical strategies you can try. One of the most effective ways is to break big tasks into smaller, easier steps. Smaller tasks feel more manageable and give you a sense of accomplishment as you finish each step. You should also set clear deadlines for these smaller steps, even if it's just 30 minutes, so you have a sense of urgency and direction.
Having a specific workspace can also help. You might need to find a quiet place where you won't be distracted by your phone, social media, or other interruptions. You can also create a simple routine that signals your brain it's time to focus, like making a cup of tea, putting on a particular playlist, or tidying your desk before you start working. These small habits can help you get into the right mindset for productive work.
Having a specific workspace can also help. You might need to find a quiet place where you won't be distracted by your phone, social media, or other interruptions. You can also create a simple routine that signals your brain it's time to focus, like making a cup of tea, putting on a particular playlist, or tidying your desk before you start working. These small habits can help you get into the right mindset for productive work.