The Art of Procrastination

Procrastination comes naturally to many. Specifically, it is a curse. Our minds are programmed to trigger the automatic message that says that we can “do this later.” There are things far more interesting than working on an English paper. Instead, stare at that bug that landed on the window sill. It has the most fascinating design on its back. Of course, procrastination does not have to be wasted on staring at miniscule insects. If procrastination is done right, there are benefits. Effective procrastination can be achieved by prioritizing, remaining guilt free, scanning the materials, and indulging oneself in distractions first.

Everyone has used “I’ll do it later” as a procrastination motto. However, when is later? Is it tomorrow; two weeks from now; or when the next Ice Age hits? This leads to the first step of effective procrastination. Prioritize and define when that later is. Although it does not sound like an inviting step to avid procrastinators, this is crucial to effective procrastination. Create a list of all the things that need to be done. All school assignments should be listed in the order of due date. Check off what must be done immediately and leave the rest for later.

The second step toward the couch-slouching journey may be the hardest one. It will require skimming over the material before first. Yes, to procrastinate, one must first know the material that will be laid aside. To allow the mind to envision materials, draw a mustache on every photo. Maybe, after the fiftieth desecrated photo a brilliant idea that pertains to the English paper will surface.

The third step and the most vital step is to ignore guilt. If everything is prioritized, there should be no guilt. Everything will eventually get done. Find ways to occupy yourself to avoid guilt. Watch all of your favorite TV series episodes until you reach the due date of the assignments.

The fourth and last step is to further prioritize to accommodate to your own fun-o-meter. Indulge in distractions first. For example, when torn between writing the English paper or watching the newest episode of the TV series, choosing to write the English paper, and forfeiting the drama episode, will leave one wondering whether Jill will ever accept Jack’s marriage proposal. A distracted mind will result in an inability to focus on the task at hand. On the other hand, giving in, and sitting through an hour of television, will put the wandering mind at ease. Only then, the mind be able to focus on the paper. However, as mentioned in step one, one must know his/her limitations. If the indulgence takes up several hours, a more reasonable distraction would be better. A short nap, reading a chapter of a favorite novel, or replying to email from friends are good alternatives.

It is probably impossible to convert a procrastinator into a studious individual. However, prioritizing, remaining guilt free, scanning the materials, and indulging oneself in distractions first, will make for effective procrastination. In the end, one can still indulge in the couch-potato glory, while getting all the work done on time.