Procrastination

For my first blog post, I figured it was only appropriate to address any student’s arch nemesis; procrastination.

Fun fact: The origin of the word procrastination comes from Latin derivation;

Pro - forward. Cras - tomorrow. Pro cras - for tomorrow.

But, I’m here to encourage you to turn that arch nemesis into a lever arch file. In my experience, the kryptonite of procrastination is lists. If it works for Santa, it can work for you! Make a list, check it twice.

To do lists empty your head of all of the things you need to do and allow you to concentrate on one task at a time, meaning you will be more efficient than if you are juggling stresses and worries in your head whilst trying to be productive. Message approved by Dawn The Apprentice Jockey.

Some top tips when it comes to lists;

•          If you like to have a physical list and enjoy the satisfaction of scoring out tasks as you complete them, colour code your list (red for urgent, black for important and blue for other). This will encourage prioritisation and limit procrastination!
•           Another important detail of to do lists are deadlines. Beside every task, assign a day and time you would like to have it completed by. This way you can set realistic expectations and it makes the workload seem more manageable which is motivating.
•           If you have tasks to complete from various sources in your life (i.e. housework, academic work and work from your job), incorporate an element of each into your daily to-do -lists. This differentiation of tasks lessens the repetitiveness and is less likely to get you in a productivity slump. It also makes you feel as if you are making progress in all areas, leading to an increased sense of achievement.

Affirmation: Contrary to popular belief, good things do not come to those who wait. Good things come to those who go out and make good things happen.

If you won’t listen to me, listen to Heather Small!

 

Thank you for reading,

Matthew x