Procrastination And Motivation:
Procrastination is something almost every high school student has experienced. Whether it’s pushing off a research paper until the night before or waiting until the last minute to start studying for a big test, the habit of delaying work can lead to stress, lower grades, and a cycle that’s hard to break. But why do we procrastinate, and how can we overcome it?
Why Do We Procrastinate?
At its core, procrastination is “the act of delaying or putting off tasks until the last minute or past their deadline.” However, the reasons behind it vary from person to person. Some students feel overwhelmed by perfectionism, while others thrive under last-minute pressure. Here are some of the most common types of procrastinators:
The Perfectionist/Over-Doer: This student believes everything must be flawless before they even start. They often set unrealistic standards, leading to paralysis instead of productivity.
The Crisis-Maker: These individuals claim they need the adrenaline rush of a looming deadline to work efficiently.
The Defier: They question the value of an assignment and decide it’s not worth their time, dismissing it as unnecessary.
The Worrier: Fear of failure stops them from even attempting their work, as they doubt their abilities.
The Dreamer: Believing success will come without effort, they struggle to find the motivation to put in the work, often out of frustration or boredom.
How Procrastination Affects Academics
Procrastination doesn’t just impact homework and test prep; it can also affect a student’s confidence and long-term success. Rushing through assignments at the last minute often results in lower-quality work and more mistakes. Additionally, procrastinators may struggle with increased stress, sleep deprivation, and a lack of focus in class, making it even harder to stay on top of responsibilities.
The Struggle to Stay on Track
By Luceinda Anis