People tend to procrastinate on work they don’t want to do but they have to get it done, so looking at ways to not procrastinate may be a large help. The main way to stop procrastinating is self discipline, not putting things to the last minute constantly. A way to start learning self discipline is the 2 minute method. According to James Clear in How to Stop Procrastinating Using The 2 minute Rule. He states that the easiest way to stop procrastinating is to change how people talk. Turning “I need to read before bed” into “one page before bed” makes the tasks most would put off, or come to view as a chore, seem simple. This simple habit makes starting things seem easier, because the mind will come to view it as just one step instead of a marathon.
Mr. Flynn, an English teacher at Shadow Ridge High School states, “I love making lists, so my first step in avoiding procrastination is to make a list of everything I need to get done so I can prioritize the most important and the most difficult. This helps me see everything I need to do, which keeps me from feeling overwhelmed. Then I break down the more complicated and time-consuming tasks into smaller chunks, which makes them feel less daunting. Once I have that list, I get to work and I check off the tasks as I complete them. This gives me a sense of accomplishment and motivation to continue working.”
He makes amazing points about making lists and keeping positivity up, which relates to an article from John Hopkins University’s article, Overcoming Procrastination, which states that people should set goals for themselves. Having an understanding of where to start will also help people get started, understanding what the wanted outcome is, is the best way to get started.
Flynn stated, “I also like to give myself breaks and rewards in between to give me motivation to finish the work. If there is a movie I want to watch, I make sure I complete a few tasks on my list before sitting down to watch it. Exercise is also a great way to avoid procrastination. For me, a good run, time at the gym, or a hike with my dogs gives me energy and allows me to clear my head and refocus. Procrastination is like that horrible friend we’ve all had. They may be fun to hang out with, but they’re super unreliable, selfish, and they really just make your life more stressful. The sooner you learn how to avoid them, the better your life will be.”
He makes points in stressing how not procrastinating is learned over time and it’s not immediate, but a slow transition. This makes for a larger adjustment period and helps people understand why they won’t get immediate results.
Jenna Perez , sophmore, stated, “I personally do every assignment a day ahead. So if I have an assignment due first period on Wednesday, I’d do it Monday after school. It keeps me a step ahead and so I don’t stress.”
She makes a good point about organizing and understanding. The best way to not procrastinate is organizing the steps of what should be done which makes it a lot easier than saying it’s too hard or just ignoring it internally. Setting realistic goals and taking accountability is a large part of achieving those goals and not saying it’ll happen one day.
