An estimated 20% of adults (and more than 50% of students) procrastinate regularly. Fortunately, psychologists know several effective ways to combat procrastination.
As Professor Fuschia Sirois points out, there are two main ways to address the root cause of procrastination. This is self-compassion and cognitive reframing. Procrastinators, especially those with a chronic problem, are very hard on themselves. Instead of starting work, they postponed the work. The psychologist recommends admitting that you are unhappy with yourself and then moving on.
Mindfulness exercises are associated with greater self-compassion and lower levels of procrastination. A study published in the International Journal of Applied Positive Psychology found that those who completed a three-minute mindfulness exercise were less likely to procrastinate later in life.
Additionally, a recent unpublished study conducted by graduate student Sisi Yang divided people into two groups. One was asked to think positive thoughts while engaging in a particular activity. The second group had to reframe the upcoming task as something meaningful by considering the following questions: What value would achieving this goal add to your self-perception? How will achieving this goal affect how others view you? What value will achieving this goal add to your personal development? Interestingly, the second group procrastinated less than the first.
News materials cannot be equated with a doctor’s prescription. Consult an expert before making a decision.
Source: Ferra
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