what is a cure for procrastination?

Question

I only procrastinate on papers and projects at school, but it has become a bit of an issue with me. I have a hard time focusing and getting stuff done (this website is sooooo distracting). It is not that I am a bad writer or that I am dumb, I just can't finish stuff!!! I don't have any kind of disorder or ADD or anything either.

Answer 1

if you know you are going to get distracted then put yourself in a room or somewhere that has nothing there to distract you... remove any distractions and clear your mind... it's ok to take breaks when doing a paper or a project, if you are trying to do it all at once that is one of your problems... you will easily tire, stress, and feel discouraged when you have been at it for what seems like hours... schedule yourself for your important school assignments... when it is assigned start doing the simple things as you go so you won't have to do it all at once... take one day at a time, start by brainstorming and then come up with an outline *break time* after you have taken a break, start researching your topic and come up with a thesis statement and some quotes you would like to use... *time for another break* now you should do your rough draft with all the info you have gained and focus on gettting the rough draft done ONLY... don't worry about anything else until you get there... by taking breaks, even if it is just working on a different school subject, you clear your mind some of the things you have to do and you aren't being overloaded with so many facts at one time... if you have more time you can even split these steps up into days, instead of small breaks... keep the atmosphere enjoyable though... if it doesn't distract you, you could try writing your rough draft or working on your thesis statement outside if it is a pleasant day... you can also do little things on your project in between your free time, like writing a paragraph or two in between tv shows... split things up so it doesn't overload you... try to really get into your project... enjoy yourself and what it is you are learning through your research... if you love history, then enjoy learning interesting facts for a history paper... if you're into english, read some poetry or a novel that you like and do a project on that.... school papers and projects don't have to be boring and dreadful... you can make them whatever you want them to be when you put some effort into it.... good luck overcoming your procrastination!!!

Answer 2

I have this exact problem. The best thing I've found is to use small rewards, like saving snack-time until after I finish a task. I also do better if I don't stop until finishing one task. Sometimes this means I work for a long time on one thing, but at least when it's done I don't have to go back to it.

Also, it helps to set aside specific times for answering email, going on Yahoo Answers, or whatever is continually distracting me. Only do those things during the designated time. Some resources: check out the Personal Efficiency Program and the NOW Habit (2 good books on this problem).

Answer 3

I understand. Just start off small. If something needs to be done, like a book that's fallen out of place, as soon as you notice that, get up and put it where it belongs. As soon as you get home, do your homework. Maybe do it in a room away from the computer, so you won't be tempted.

But really .. just do it.

Answer 4

~Recognize self-defeating problems such as fear and anxiety, difficulty concentrating, poor time management

~Identify your personal goals, strengths, weaknesses, values, and priorities. Post your goals so that you are reminded daily.

~Discipline yourself to use your time wisely. Set priorities and schedule how you plan to accomplish them.

~Study in small time blocks

~Take big jobs and break them into a series of small ones.

~Motivate yourself to study. Dwell on your successes, not failures

~Try to study in small groups so that others keep you motivated

~Set realistic goals for yourself to accomplish

~Modify your environment. Eliminate or minimize noise and distractions. Ensure adequate lighting and have necessary equipment and supplies available. Don’t get too comfortable when studying.

~Make sure your study area is neat

~Convince yourself that the task is worth doing, even if it’s hard to get started.

Answer 5

Just be focused and positive. It is amazing how those two things will help you.

Answer 6

there is no cure, i do the same thing on trivial things such as homework and studying for tests.