Overcoming Procrastination
By Michel Boudrias, Associate Professor of Marine Science and Environmental Studies, and Merrick Marino, Assistant Dean of Students
Three Keys to Managing Procrastination – Getting things done!
1. Environment!! Avoid or Minimize Distractions. You won’t be distracted by what’s not there so make your environment distraction free.
• When trying to work go somewhere where you won’t be interrupted by friends and room/hall mates.
• Turn off your cell phone when studying, also turn off your computer if reading.
• Leave your room if you can’t focus there – go to the library, fountain, residence hall study lounge near, Legal Research Center, study space in a building (Science and Technology, University Center, Serra Hall, etc.)
• Don’t study with the TV on; it slows you down and actually affects the way information is stored in your brain.
2. Do It Now! Don’t think yourself out of doing work, just sit down and get started. The more you delay, the more your mind can play tricks on you to justify procrastinating.
3. Reward Yourself! Don’t reply on will power alone. Give yourself incentives to get things done.
• Small tasks = small rewards (e.g. 10 minute study break, snack, etc.)
• Big tasks = big rewards (go to a movie, night out with friends, etc.)
• Schedule fun events at the end of an assignment