Ever looked at the calendar and realised that an assignment or trials is less than 2 weeks away? From Youtube, to Discord, to games then to Instagram, we are always stuck in something that prevents us from completing that task. So how does one go from a procrastinator to a productive pro?

‍

Let go of the perfectionist mentality

‍

Starting a difficult task sometimes feels like facing an insurmountable mountain. Where do you even start? How can you do this task well? More importantly, how can you do it to other people’s standards? 

‍

These are some questions you’d ask yourself if you are procrastinating because of a perfectionist mentality. Whilst it’s good to aim high, it won’t be useful when it is getting in the way of you starting the task. Remember, your work doesn’t need to be the best thing since sliced bread! As long as you give it a fair go, you’ll be leagues ahead of the people who haven’t even commenced the task. 

‍

Break tasks into little steps

‍

Part of starting a task is knowing where to start. This is where planning and setting out a timeline for your task completion is so important! Here are some dot points you should work out to make finishing the task more accessible: 

‍

1. When do I need it done?
2. What mini-tasks do I need to get this assignment done?
3. How can I get it done? What resources or tutors will I be consulting?
4. Who will keep me accountable? Who can I go to for advice and counsel?

‍

In HSC, my number one rule for no last-minute assignments is to set the timeline earlier by at least 1 week. It means if this assignment is due in 4 weeks, I’ll pretend it is due in 3 weeks so that I make sure I get it done on time!

‍

Work out fail safes to prevent procrastination

Part of being productive is anticipating when you won’t be. Have systems in place to ensure that even if you feel like falling back into procrastinating that something will stop you. These ‘productivity failsafes’, as I like to call them, come in many forms. 

1. Using a time-tracking app (e.g. Forest) that locks your phone for a certain amount of time 
2. Pomodoro method (Studying in set intervals) 
3. Focus apps that lock apps after a certain amount of time usage 
4. Uninstalling games and social media in peak assignment season
5. Flexible schedules that can accommodate potential setbacks
6. Studying with friends and keeping each other accountable

‍

Overall, everyone will procrastinate differently in one way or another. It is less about eliminating all procrastination, and instead prioritising your time effectively to live the way you want. After all, fortune favours the prepared!

‍

Want to study alongside state-rankers who succeeded by defeating procrastination? Reach out to Concept - we're always happy to help!

‍