12 answers
seema
Student
New Delhi, Delhi, India
2
Questions
Updated
725 views
how can i stop procrastinating?
how do i reduce my procrastination? If anyone could provide some useful methods?
12 answers
Shaye Zhang, P.Eng.
Senior Consultant
23
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Shaye’s Answer
Hi Seema, there are a few methods that help me to reduce procrastination:
1) Set a small, incremental goals to accomplish in a small section of time. For me I prefer 30 minutes or 1 hour depending on the task. If you think that's too long set a smaller section of time that you feel is a good amount of time. You can even start with 2 or 5 minutes. Do that and if you're able to focus for that long then increase the time. You'll be surprised how much can be accomplished in 5 minutes if you stay focused.
2) Be in a comfortable setting. Play a relaxing Youtube video in the background such as a snowing day, fireplace, or video of another person studying. Play music only if it helps.
3) Change in environment. Go to a local coffee shop, bookstore, or somewhere you can plug and focus.
4) Take breaks. After focusing for 30 min take a 5 min break; after focusing for 1 hour take a 15 min break, etc.
5) Reward yourself. This is important. If you're able to do this continuously you should always find ways to reward yourself for doing so. It will keep you motivated and enjoy the reward from the effort.
1) Set a small, incremental goals to accomplish in a small section of time. For me I prefer 30 minutes or 1 hour depending on the task. If you think that's too long set a smaller section of time that you feel is a good amount of time. You can even start with 2 or 5 minutes. Do that and if you're able to focus for that long then increase the time. You'll be surprised how much can be accomplished in 5 minutes if you stay focused.
2) Be in a comfortable setting. Play a relaxing Youtube video in the background such as a snowing day, fireplace, or video of another person studying. Play music only if it helps.
3) Change in environment. Go to a local coffee shop, bookstore, or somewhere you can plug and focus.
4) Take breaks. After focusing for 30 min take a 5 min break; after focusing for 1 hour take a 15 min break, etc.
5) Reward yourself. This is important. If you're able to do this continuously you should always find ways to reward yourself for doing so. It will keep you motivated and enjoy the reward from the effort.
Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action!
seema
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1348
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Seema if you're a really good procrastinator, you'll find every reason to ignore your To-Do list like me. But by the end of the day, we'll still need check off our last task.
Here's what works for me, if you do the thing(s) you really don't want to at the beginning of the day (actually giving them priority in your schedule), then you'll have the rest of the day to enjoy the things that you really want to do, as opposed to using them as mere distractions.
Hope this is helpful Seema
Tip: for avoiding procrastination is to reduce the number of decisions you need to make during a given day by making those decisions ahead of time and/or creating habits around certain areas of your life to boost your effectiveness and prevent you from draining your energy by thinking about whether to do them or not. Rather than frantically figuring out what you’ll do on any given day, a better way to approach your day would be to take a few minutes at the end of each day to quickly map out the following day.
Here's what works for me, if you do the thing(s) you really don't want to at the beginning of the day (actually giving them priority in your schedule), then you'll have the rest of the day to enjoy the things that you really want to do, as opposed to using them as mere distractions.
Hope this is helpful Seema
Doc recommends the following next steps:
Kimanu Avent
Field service technician
26
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Kimanu’s Answer
Set yourself up with a better regimen. Plan your day and week more accordingly and challenge yourself to reach those goals. Use time that you usually waste by doing something for others or yourself. This will be fulfilling to yourself and others. Try and volunteer in your neighborhood or make something yourself that gives back. Not only may this motivate you it may motivate others as well. The first step is the best step! Goodluck
Thank you for the advice, Kimanu.
seema
James Hanzel
Corrections and Security
236
Answers
Cape Coral, Florida
Updated
James’s Answer
A quick answer from me, friend. Start simple. This works for studying, working out, or any good habit you are trying to build. Lots of people look at a long-term goal and see it as a rather daunting task. A way to get by that is just starting with a manageable easier task. If fitness is your goal, start with ten minutes walking on the treadmill. If studying for better grades is your goal, start with ten or fifteen minutes. You typically can't conquer your mountain all at once.
I'm excited to put your great advice to good use!
seema
Nicole Norelli
Vendor Manager
5
Answers
Ormond Beach, Florida
Updated
Nicole’s Answer
Hi Seema,
I second Shaye's answer, which was very thorough. I struggled with procrastination when I was in school, and still do at times as an adult in the workforce. Minimizing unpredictable interruptions, having unintrusive background noise (podcasts, a TV show I've already seen) and setting a timer have helped me the most. My current schedule looks like this:
1. I set a timer for 42 minutes and get through whatever work I can in that time
2a. If I am starting to lose focus when the timer goes off, I take a 12 minute break.
OR
2b. If I am in a good state, I'll keep working until I need a break. If I work for an hour or more, I'll take a 20 min break.
3. At the end of my break, I set the timer for 42 minutes again.
I use 42 minutes because I have heard that we can really only focus for 40 or so minutes at a time. It may or may not be true, but it works for me. The best amount to use is the amount that works for you.
I second Shaye's answer, which was very thorough. I struggled with procrastination when I was in school, and still do at times as an adult in the workforce. Minimizing unpredictable interruptions, having unintrusive background noise (podcasts, a TV show I've already seen) and setting a timer have helped me the most. My current schedule looks like this:
1. I set a timer for 42 minutes and get through whatever work I can in that time
2a. If I am starting to lose focus when the timer goes off, I take a 12 minute break.
OR
2b. If I am in a good state, I'll keep working until I need a break. If I work for an hour or more, I'll take a 20 min break.
3. At the end of my break, I set the timer for 42 minutes again.
I use 42 minutes because I have heard that we can really only focus for 40 or so minutes at a time. It may or may not be true, but it works for me. The best amount to use is the amount that works for you.
thank you so much for great advice
seema
Bailey Feathers
Technology Consulting
14
Answers
Newnan, Georgia
Updated
Bailey’s Answer
Hi Seema,
Great question. I have a hard time with procrastination as well. I find it helpful to write down the tasks I need to complete to get a visual of what my day will look like. A planner is a great place to write down tasks; however, a piece of notebook paper will work the same! I like to mark out my tasks I complete them, so I can see the progress I am making and know that I'm not procrastinating.
Complete tasks in timed increments
Get a planner so you can write down what you need to get done / physically mark out tasks to see your progress
Take breaks when needed
Great question. I have a hard time with procrastination as well. I find it helpful to write down the tasks I need to complete to get a visual of what my day will look like. A planner is a great place to write down tasks; however, a piece of notebook paper will work the same! I like to mark out my tasks I complete them, so I can see the progress I am making and know that I'm not procrastinating.
Bailey recommends the following next steps:
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
seema
Sundar Raj
Software Engineer
5
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Sundar’s Answer
The key to beating procrastination is focus. We often give ourselves too many things to do and become overwhelmed. Start by choosing just ONE thing that you've been procrastinating and make a commitment to complete that task in the next week.
Try to Follow these :
Set small goals. Sometimes, the thought of completing one large task can seem overwhelming.
Organize your tasks.
Focus your attention.
Remove distractions.
Try to Follow these :
Set small goals. Sometimes, the thought of completing one large task can seem overwhelming.
Organize your tasks.
Focus your attention.
Remove distractions.
Emma Eklof
Academic Tutor
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Emma’s Answer
Make a list of all of the things you are putting off, then rank them in terms of urgency and importance. Try and accomplish just one or two items from your list a day. If you are putting off doing something that is complicated and takes multiple steps, break it down and accomplish the task step by step (one or two steps a day). Make an appointment for yourself at a certain time of day. Allow yourself to do whatever you want otherwise, but during your appointment, for that hour, you are committed to accomplishing a set number of tasks that you decree ahead of time. When finished, you have accomplished your goal for the day and can allow yourself a break until the next date.
Make a list, organize and prioritize tasks by urgency, difficulty and importance
Make a plan, breaking up tasks into doable steps
Make a schedule, and create dates for yourself. During those dates, which will be only for a set amount of time (a half hour, perhaps), you are committed to tackling one task
Ask for help and support
Emma recommends the following next steps:
thank you so so much for your great advice. Will put it to work!
seema
Nandini Krishna
Manager
34
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Nandini’s Answer
Hello Seema,
The best way to avoid procrastination based on my experience is to create a schedule. When you have a time slot for everything, it gets hard to not do something in its slotted time. Below is something that I do to make sure I have a well defined schedule:
1. Create a routine - While I was in college, the first thing that helped me was creating a routine. I created a timetable for myself that had everything from class schedules, time to cook, see/ talk to my family, friend times, party times, and of course the crucial sleep time.
2. Time to study - Set aside more time than you think you need for studying. Inevitably, something will interrupt your study sessions - so I would set aside more time than I think I need so I am mentally prepared
3. Do not multi task - Based on personal experience, neither of your tasks will be completed to your satisfaction
4. Set goals for the day and work towards it.
5. Me time - A very important step in college. Spend some time by yourself mediating or doing something you love.
That said, getting over procrastination is a journey. Best of luck!
The best way to avoid procrastination based on my experience is to create a schedule. When you have a time slot for everything, it gets hard to not do something in its slotted time. Below is something that I do to make sure I have a well defined schedule:
1. Create a routine - While I was in college, the first thing that helped me was creating a routine. I created a timetable for myself that had everything from class schedules, time to cook, see/ talk to my family, friend times, party times, and of course the crucial sleep time.
2. Time to study - Set aside more time than you think you need for studying. Inevitably, something will interrupt your study sessions - so I would set aside more time than I think I need so I am mentally prepared
3. Do not multi task - Based on personal experience, neither of your tasks will be completed to your satisfaction
4. Set goals for the day and work towards it.
5. Me time - A very important step in college. Spend some time by yourself mediating or doing something you love.
That said, getting over procrastination is a journey. Best of luck!
Arun Benitto
Developer
1
Answer
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Arun’s Answer
Hey Seema! Here is some of the tips what i follow to reduce procrastination,
1) Focus : Reduce your distractions and improve your focus, It is difficult to start with but you can start small.
2) Take Breaks: Take breaks as and when required. Be fully detached from work during the break.
3) ToDo List - Prepare a To-Do List before starting your day and assign the priority for each task. Start doing the high priority tasks first then look into others. Do not forget to set time boundary for each tasks.
4) Reward Yourself: Appreciate your self after completing each and every task.
1) Focus : Reduce your distractions and improve your focus, It is difficult to start with but you can start small.
2) Take Breaks: Take breaks as and when required. Be fully detached from work during the break.
3) ToDo List - Prepare a To-Do List before starting your day and assign the priority for each task. Start doing the high priority tasks first then look into others. Do not forget to set time boundary for each tasks.
4) Reward Yourself: Appreciate your self after completing each and every task.
Chirayu Rupani
Data Analyst
295
Answers
Frisco, Texas
Updated
Chirayu’s Answer
Procrastination can be a common problem for many people, but there are several strategies that can help reduce it. Sometimes the thought of completing a large project can be overwhelming and lead to procrastination. Breaking it down into smaller steps can make it more approachable and manageable. Set a timer for a certain amount of time and focus on one task during that time. Alternatively, create a schedule for your day or week that includes time blocks for specific tasks. Prioritize your to-do list and start with the most important or urgent tasks first. This can help you feel more in control and motivated to get things done. Try to eliminate or minimize distractions that can cause you to procrastinate, such as social media, video games, or TV. Consider turning off notifications or using apps that block distracting websites. Find someone who can hold you accountable for completing tasks or reaching goals. This could be a friend, family member, or even a professional coach. Remember that it's okay to make mistakes or struggle with procrastination. Practice self-compassion and focus on progress, rather than perfection. Try to identify the root cause of your procrastination. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure of what to do? Understanding the reasons behind your procrastination can help you address the underlying issues. Remember, reducing procrastination takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and keep trying different strategies until you find what works best for you.
Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action!
seema
Procrastinating is a problem all of us face. First step you need to see is to understand the reason, It could be simply be you aren't finding it interesting or the conviction to do that job is still not clear. Figure it out. Once you have the reason I am sure you will know how you can make it interesting to complete if the job needs to be done! Yes try and network to rationalize the objective of the work, probably it can give you more insights and help get a clarity on your job. Good luck.
Shwetha K R
Afrad Mahamed
Operations & Project Management
64
Answers
Lakeland, Florida
Updated
Afrad’s Answer
Hi Seema - A simple trick that saved me was using time already scheduled for something, while your mind is focused on the topic at hand. For example, if I attend a class and it ends early, instead of leaving, I stay and spend the rest of the class time getting a jump on my assignments. It worked out well as the information was fresh on my mind, as opposed to later, you'll have to refresh yourself before beginning the assignment.
Another thing is to set reminders in your calendar that alerts you to do something, especially during times of the day that you usually spend watching TV etc. This goes well with scheduling/dedicating specific times to get things done early.
Finally, simplify the things you need to get done. We usually put off things because they are too complicated, time-consuming or take a lot of effort. So make it simple, start with the easy parts, and don't push yourself to get it all done in one sitting. Many times, starting is the difficult part and once you get it going, it becomes easy. So make it easy, low pressure, low expectations, so that you can START!
Hope this helps, all the best!
Another thing is to set reminders in your calendar that alerts you to do something, especially during times of the day that you usually spend watching TV etc. This goes well with scheduling/dedicating specific times to get things done early.
Finally, simplify the things you need to get done. We usually put off things because they are too complicated, time-consuming or take a lot of effort. So make it simple, start with the easy parts, and don't push yourself to get it all done in one sitting. Many times, starting is the difficult part and once you get it going, it becomes easy. So make it easy, low pressure, low expectations, so that you can START!
Hope this helps, all the best!
Thank you for giving me advice.
seema
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