Procrastination and how to deal with it.

It has been a month since my previous post on medium. A month. Can you believe it? Perhaps you can relate. From telling yourself, “Yes I shall try to write something up weekly” to finally writing a story (ironically about its cause) one entire month later. An exemplary example of procrastination.

Within the span of one month, I came to the revelation that procrastination can be likened to an intense battle between Angel and Devil in your mind. Sorry to break to you the obvious — Devil wins.

I mean who can easily resist the temptations of this world? The bed seducing you for a “quick” nap only for it to last 1000% longer than planned. Housemates watching the latest hits on Netflix and you hop on the comfy couch with some popcorn. That excessive “preparation”. TikTok??? Let’s just say the list is non-exhaustive.

I believe the million-dollar question is: How do I get the Angel to win the Devil?

After much reflection and discussion (R&D HAHA) with my best friend Google, I came to a few tips that I would love to share.

Like all problems, we must first recognise that we have a problem. Not to make procrastination sound like an illness, but I do share the sentiment that we all dislike procrastinating. It could also be the case of prioritising the wrong items, such as tackling a Math practice paper that is due next week when you have a dreaded presentation to ace the next day.

Unsurprisingly, the second step is to identify the WHY. Is it fear? Is the task at hand too boring? Or, are you unorganised? This is so we can tackle the root problem and ensure a higher success rate on beating the Devil.

Depending on the reason for procrastination, with mine being lack of motivation (my bf is in army, what to do D: ), a set of strategies will be adopted.

Some useful ones that I have picked out so far include:

Listing down a reasonable amount of productive work by the hour is recommended.

2. Tackle the hardest tasks at your peak times

Some work better early in the morning, some late at night, some just need a good coffee. Take your pick! (Milo preferred for reduced caffeine dependence)

3. Use task or time-management apps

4. Promise yourself a reward

Some chocolate at the end of a brain-wrecking coding practice may do the trick! It’s all part of the brain enjoying the fruits of your labour so it stays happy and excited:)

5. Minimise Distractions

Above are some tips for one that lacks motivation and is a tat bit unorganised. I may not be a professional at tackling the Devil in our minds, but I sure can give these R&Ded tips a try! No harm, right! All the best to us:)

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