We all know the familiar feeling at the part of the semester when exams are starting and projects are being assigned. Basically, it’s the point in the semester where we can’t afford to lose any time. So as someone who’s been procrastinating for years, I’ve gotten quite good at it and I’m going to share some of my tips with you.
Now, the key to getting away with procrastinating is to make sure it’s “productive procrastination.” This is essentially procrastination where you do things that do need to get done eventually, but aren’t related to the main task you need to be working on now.
This is the easiest way (and probably the only way) to justify any form of procrastination.
You’re probably wondering what you can do to avoid working on that big essay or studying for that exam, so here are a few ideas that don’t involve binge-watching your favorite show on Netflix.
1. Clean your room
If your room is a mess, you’re probably going to be staring at all of the clutter and seeing the mess will only stress you out while you’re trying to get work done. If you clean your room first, there will be nothing to distract you. It’s like they always say: messy room, messy mind (or something like that…).
2. Clean out your backpack
Going off of Step #1, if you organize your backpack first, you know you’ll have your notes, project instructions, and everything else you need at quick access. Plus, you might come across some notes or something you had misplaced and this will help you be less stressed.
3. Write down your assignments and create a to-do list
If you write down all of your homework first (and create a to-do list with other important tasks/deadlines), you’ll feel good while you’re studying or working on projects. Not only will you be sure you’re not forgetting about any other assignments, but you’ll also have your priorities straight.
4. Go get some food
You deserve it! After cleaning and organizing, you’re probably ready to have something to eat. Besides, you don’t want to get to work on an empty stomach; all you’ll be thinking about is how hungry you are.
5. Grab a water bottle
It’s proven that water has many health benefits. Therefore, you should fill up a water bottle before you start studying so you’ll have it on your desk when you’re thirsty. Drinking plenty of water is good for your brain too and who wouldn’t want their brain to be in good condition while studying?
6. Check your bank account
This is actually (not) necessary. Just think about it: college students are always stressed out about the amount of money they have. If you check your bank account before you start studying and you like what you see, you won’t be stressed about money. You’ll be free to stress out more about the assignments you’ve now successfully put off for about an hour.
(Note: if you think checking your bank account will only stress you out more, do not do it. Proceed to Step 7.)
7. Take a nap
We all know the power of a good power nap. If you’re feeling a bit tired from all of the procrastination, take a short nap and then get back to work once you’re feeling recharged and ready to work. Plus, it’s been said that some stress is actually good for you. If you wake up and you’re way closer to the assignment’s deadline, you’ll be more stressed and therefore more motivated to get your work done.
8. Call your family
Check in with your family at home. It’s always good to make sure they’re doing well. Plus, they might be able to give you a good pep talk to motivate you to study for exams!
9. Check your emails/social media notifications
If you start your homework without checking social media or emails, you’ll be wondering if you’re missing out on something (#FOMO). If you start your homework by checking your social media, you’ll have cleared all of your notifications, gotten back to people who were waiting for your response and you’ll know there is nothing that needs your attention while you’re trying to study.
10. Read (or write) a Her Campus article
Guess what I should be doing right now instead of writing this article.
But in all honesty, you shouldn’t follow any of this advice (I don’t.) It would be close to impossible to finish this whole list every time you sit down to get some work done. And trust me, there’s no better way to get things done then to just get them done.
May your grades be high and your procrastination productive.