Procrastination Nation

Vol 27, Issue 21, 21 March 2025

We have all been there staring at an assignment that’s due tomorrow, but instead of working on it, we end up binge watching that new show, scrolling through endless TikToks, or even organizing our entire wardrobe. Welcome to “Procrastination Nation,” where the struggle to stay on task is real, and the only thing more overwhelming than the homework pile is the guilt that follows.

So, why do we procrastinate? Psychologists have a few theories, and they all revolve around one common factor: avoidance. Whether it’s the fear of failure, perfectionism, or simply not finding the task enjoyable, we find ways to distract ourselves rather than tackling what’s on our plate. And let’s be honest, how many times have we convinced ourselves that we work better under pressure? That’s the classic procrastinator’s mantra.

But it’s not all bad news. Procrastination is often a sign of stress or burnout, and giving ourselves a break isn’t always a bad thing. Sometimes, our brains need time to recharge. In fact, some of the best ideas come when we’re not actively trying to solve a problem. However, it’s all about balance. Spending hours on a Netflix marathon or getting lost in social media might not be the best strategy when your essay is still untouched.

So, what are the best ways to overcome procrastination? One trick is to break down big tasks into smaller, manageable chunks. Instead of focusing on finishing the entire essay, aim to write just one paragraph. The sense of accomplishment will motivate you to keep going. Another helpful technique is the Pomodoro method work for 25 minutes, then take a 5 minute break. Repeat, and suddenly, the task doesn’t seem as daunting.

At the end of the day, procrastination is a universal student struggle. But with the right mindset and a few strategies, we can fight back and conquer the homework beast one small step at a time.