What is Procrastination?

As defined by Merriam Webster Dictionary, procrastination is defined as “to put off intentionally the doing of something that should be done.” Procrastination is a serious issue that affects many people today, especially teens. With so many distractions and excuses available, it is easy to not do something solely for the reason that you don’t feel like it.

Causes of Procrastination

Today’s teens in particular are plagued by this habit. With the whole world accessible in a little computer in your back pocket, hours and hours of time can be spent (or wasted) staring at a phone. Just as there is an endless number of distractions available, procrastination results from numerous initiating factors that include pure laziness, tiredness, or lack of motivation. It may also arise from a genetic predisposition, or even through neglect during the developmental stage.

Procrastination can also be caused by too much pressure or support. From that comes a sense of rebellion, causing people to procrastinate even if it hurts them more than the people they are trying to disobey. 

Common mental health disorders such as anxiety or depression, with their accompanying symptoms of  stress, general nervousness, and an overall lack of energy and motivation, increase the chances of procrastination. 

Solutions for Procrastination

Ways to work on overcoming procrastination are to set goals, eliminate distractions, and set up rewards.

To begin, create a focus-oriented environment. Choose a specific place and dedicate that spot to only doing work. Do not allow your phone or anything else that could distract you in that space.

Next, create a to-do list, but start off small. Too many things on the list can be overwhelming and will instantly turn your brain into avoidance mode.

Finally, bribe yourself! Set up small rewards for after each task, or a big reward for after you have completed your list.