PROCRASTINATION: A THIEF OF TIME OR MORE

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By Ojo Deborah 

I will read during the test period. I perform better under pressure. And slowly, tasks get postponed and assignments pile up. This is what the thief of time, Procrastination, can do.

Procrastination is delaying or postponing something and doing something less important instead. It is not laziness. It occurs primarily as a result of stress and emotional triggers. 

What is the Psychology behind it?

Procrastination is promoted by the Limbic system which governs emotional impulses. However, the prefrontal cortex struggles to take control resulting in delay and panic.

The solution to procrastination is equally simple: engaging the prefrontal cortex. The prefrontal cortex governs planning and decision-making. Over time, these actions become automatic as they are stored in the Basal ganglia. At this time, they become habits.

As students, we can build habits that help us to avoid procrastination. While it may seem good to attend parties instead of classes, the habits that one has built around attending classes help to limit the influence of procrastination. This can be done by breaking down tasks. That 5000-word sociology assignment can be broken down into segments. This makes it less overwhelming and a positive habit is being built.  Also, studying as a group makes you accountable to your group members and helps you to track progress. 

As students, we tend to be hard on ourselves. Not accepting that finishing the one-page course material is progress. We need to understand that procrastination is a result of our mindset. Hence, beating it requires conscious effort. The next time you feel the urge to watch movies and avoid your assignments.  Remember that you could be creating a loop of guilt and delay. Respond with intentional habits.