5 Tips for Overcoming Procrastination

5 Tips for Overcoming Procrastination It is often challenging in today's society dealing with the constant distractions that surround us.We are faced with the use of smartphones, tablets, television, computers, and other electronics. It can be difficult to focus your attention on your studies because a majority of your assignments may need the Internet for research purposes. So, how do you avoid these constant distractions when they have been integrated into our lives? As a student-athlete in college, I had to learn to avoid these distractions and discipline myself to meet deadlines for school. I have learned over the years and would like to share 5 helpful tips for overcoming procrastination. 1. Make a To-Do List I constantly make To-Do Lists to this day and quite honestly, they are very helpful. I am a visual learner and I know that if I see it on paper then I will be able to act on it. Use a notepad/sticky note to create a To-Do List and prioritize what needs to be completed before the other. It can be a simple numbered list and will take less than 1 minute to complete! 2. Give Yourself a Deadline/Goals In conjunction to the To-Do List, set some goals for yourself. I found it easier that if you set goals/deadlines for yourself, it will be easier and faster to complete the tasks. You fill more satisfaction knowing you are ahead of schedule or on track to meeting your deadline. 3. Study in a Quiet Area I was taught as a child to always study in a quiet area that is away from any distractions. Dedicate 2 hours to studying without watching television or going on Facebook. Trust me, you will finish a lot faster and will be able to enjoy your favorite television show after your work has been completed. 4. Listen to Classical Music If you can’t work in a quiet area, add some music to the scenario. I would suggest music without lyrics such as classical music. Personally, it makes it more difficult to listen to music with lyrics because then you start singing along. Before you know it you are dancing and singing instead of studying. 5. Start Early Discipline yourself to start studying and reviewing material early. If you do this, you will not have as much material to cram or study for before the test.