Written by: Prasun Basnet - 27028, Grade IX
Posted on: 07 February, 2024
Everyone in this world tries to achieve something big in comparison to others. We all make decisions easily, but when it comes to actually doing it, we tend to set it aside. We say we'll do it tomorrow or later, but the past never returns, and this tendency is known as procrastination. But why do people procrastinate? Procrastination is not a newly existing phenomenon. Research conducted at a university revealed that even in 1400 B.C., during the construction of the pyramids, people procrastinated in their work, taking a long time to complete tasks. In today’s generation, half of the earth's population procrastinates. But why do they do it?
We procrastinate while reading, doing projects, or exercising, but we never procrastinate while scrolling on Instagram or watching videos on YouTube. We tend to procrastinate tasks that require effort, but not those that entertain us or make us happy. Even deadlines play a vital role in this behavior. For example, if there's a project due in five days, we often procrastinate until the final hours. And if there are no deadlines for projects, procrastination knows no bounds and can become infinite. We often blame circumstances if we fail to achieve tasks, but deep down, we know we didn't even try to accomplish them. Procrastination leads to depression, stress, anxiety, and more. We feel guilty for not completing assignments, but we wonder how different our mood would be if we had done them.
Procrastination progresses through different stages - expectancy, need, need for affiliation, and cumulative prospect. We don't procrastinate on tasks that can be completed in a few days. Motivation for work doesn't come from watching motivational videos or speeches; it comes when we recognize the personal significance of our work. We even procrastinate when we fear failure. Before giving into procrastination, we should consider the disadvantages of the task. For example, if a project assigned at work warns that failure to complete it will result in termination, we are less likely to procrastinate. Even if we doubt our abilities, we should focus on tasks where we have confidence. In such cases, procrastination is less likely to occur. Fear of failure arises from a disturbed mindset and ego. Simply put, the longer we procrastinate, the more regrets we'll face. The less we procrastinate, the fewer regrets we'll have, or even none if we're punctual. Distractions also play a significant role in procrastination. Phones, surroundings, and social media are common distractions.
In conclusion, procrastination can hinder our chances of leading a successful life and achieving our goals. The points mentioned above can help us avoid distractions and overcome procrastination.
