As defined by the Merriam-Webster dictionary; to procrastinate is to put off intentionally something that should be done.
At some point in our lives, we all have been guilty of filling our time with something unimportant instead of being productive, I asked a few students on campus the simple question of, “How do you avoid procrastinating?” The answers varied widely from person to person.
- Using the school library to focus away from any possible outside noise
- Write upcoming due dates in a color-coordinated calendar
- Getting started on assignments as soon as you get home
- Limit social media usage
- Taking study breaks
- Reward yourself with your favorite snack
- Avoid turning on the television
- Take a nap before you start your school work
- Don’t do homework or study on an empty stomach
- Do easier assignments first, follow-up with the more difficult tasks
- Working out at the gym before studying
These are just a few things that other students have tried to steer clear of procrastinating and in no way is this a comprehensive list, in fact Regan Collins mentions ten detailed ways to avoid procrastination in an article on CollegeXpress that I found helpful.
In the Psychological Bulletin, University of Calgary psychologist Piers Steel, PhD, came to a conclusion, in 2007, that 80 to 95 percent of students in college procrastinate (Novotney, American Psychological Association).
If you feel as if you are struggling with procrastination it’s important to know that you are not alone! Talk to your professor and let them know if you feel like you are having a hard time understanding what is being taught in class so they are made aware and can further help you. Your advisor, MCC Connect, and the Student Success Center are free resources available to you with staff ready to save you from drowning in your school work.
Recently, things just got a whole lot easier for advising and tutoring! You can now make advising appointments and enroll in 24/7 online tutoring because Mohave Community College wants you to succeed! Just head on over to the Student Support Connections portal and follow the instructions on screen.
“Procrastination is the Thief of time.”- Edward Young
Layla Powell,
BHC Student Multimedia Reporter
Have a great MCC Story?
Contact LPowell@mohave.edu