Regardless of how focused we are, we all procrastinate to some extent. Personally, I often find myself scrolling mindlessly through Facebook or watching videos on YouTube and, once I realize how much time I’ve wasted, I feel so horrible! As students, procrastination is inevitable so instead of giving you a lecture on how to stop procrastinating, I’ve come up with a list of activities that you can do to procrastinate but also feel productive.
Exercise
Physical activity is perfect way to feel good while procrastinating. Exercising lifts your mood by stimulating the release of dopamine, the chemical responsible for feeling pleasure. You’re also getting fit and healthy, which can be a huge boost to your self-esteem. Furthermore, exercising gives you more energy so when you’re ready to get back to studying you’ll feel recharged and more motivated!
Clean
Cleaning just about anything, whether it be your room, kitchen or bathroom, always results in a feeling of productivity and has a ton of other added benefits. Doing chores that are on your “to-do” list like washing dishes, putting away clothes or cleaning the toilet help you focus better when you return to work. Additionally, de-cluttering your workspace actually helps you work better because it eliminates distractions caused by the clutter, helping you clear your mind.
Go Outside
Getting a breath of fresh air is so important, especially when you’ve been cooped up inside all day. Like exercising, going outside boosts your mood and your energy. When it’s sunny outside, the Vitamin D that you get can help you fight colds which is great to avoid being sick during finals! Going outside also helps you focus and stimulates creativity. If you’re having a hard time focusing or solving a problem, taking a walk is a good solution!
Work on a Different Subject
Honestly, I do this all the time when my mind is fried after studying the same subject for a long period of time. Studying something new gives your brain a break from the repetitiveness of the previous subject and helps you remain in the studying mood. It also allows the information that you just learnt settle in your mind, helping you to retain it.
Cook
While you may feel tempted to grab fast food or heat up a frozen meal when cramming during finals, making your own meals when you don’t feel like studying, is so worth it. Homemade meals are healthier than frozen meals which are packed with preservatives so taking the time to make these meals is definitely a good investment. Personally, I find cooking soothing and a great way to procrastinate when I don’t feel like studying. Plus, when you’re done cooking you get that feeling of productivity and tons of tasty food to eat!
Though there are ways to procrastinate productively, I strongly suggest that you procrastinate in moderation. Excessive procrastination can be very damaging to your GPA! That being said, you can use these activities as a way to take a break when you’re tired of studying, but still want to feel like you’re getting something done.