Problems With Time Management, Distractions, And Procrastination

Many people recognize that they struggle with time management, and though they desire to lead more productive and less stressful lives, they do not always know where to start. There are three main obstacles to attaining good time management skills — organization, distractions, and procrastination. In order to discover where I personally struggle with time management, I kept a record of my activities by the hour for a week. According to the data I collected over the week, I have ascertained that my main problem with time management is procrastination. A few ways I can strive to improve in this area are to recognize and avoid my distractions, to make each assignment relevant to my situation, and to create a routine to help me commit enough time to each assignment.

I did not expect to find that procrastination was my main problem. I knew that it was a slight issue for me, at least, but I thought that distractions were my top study detractor. That was until I realized that I am not as easily distracted as I thought, but that I use my distractions as a form of procrastination. For example, on Monday afternoon, I had no problem committing myself to a two hour study session for Spanish. For many people, this would have been too long of a period to concentrate on one thing, but I was able to complete all of the necessary reading and online assignments in one sitting, without pulling out my phone or other distractions. Unfortunately, following this significant study session, I allowed myself a “break” for checking email and social media that turned into an hour-long procrastination period. I let myself become distracted because I knew that I would need to start my English paper that night — an assignment I was dreading.

So how can I con...

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...udy for each particular course. In one or two hour time blocks, I need to focus on completing coursework, reviewing for tests, and hopefully getting into the habit of working ahead. I know it will be a challenge for me to stick to a certain study schedule, but I believe I will benefit from it in the long run.

Admitting you have a problem is the first step towards solving it. Now that I know that I struggle with procrastination, I can work towards improving my time management techniques. I no longer need to fall victim to distractions or lack of motivation. I can create a study routine that will keep me on track and focused. Even as an Undeclared major, I need to keep in mind that I am working toward a goal — discovering the purpose God has laid out for me and becoming the best I person possibly can to fulfill that purpose. No more excuses; it is time to get to work.