Teenagers are typically misunderstood. They often put off their work until the last minute, and this procrastination is seen as “lazy.” According to studies, 50% of high school students and 80% to 95% of college students struggle with procrastination. Young people usually struggle to manage their emotions, seeking easier tasks to deal with their inner challenges without impacting their main responsibilities. However, it is important to note that procrastination is not laziness. Procrastination is a behavior regularly caused by fear of failure, depression, lack of energy, low self-esteem, and perfectionism.
If someone is often distracted and overwhelmed, this could have a huge impact on their daily life, but learning to manage time effectively can lower procrastination. The first thing to do is to set a clear and realistic goal. Starting slow can make it easier to stay motivated. The second step is to prioritize responsibilities in order of importance, as focusing on one simply because it is easier may cause the deadline of another task to be overlooked. The third step is to set a time limit for tasks–don’t dismiss breaks. Breaks can ease one’s mind and reduce the stress of completing an assignment. The final step is to have reminders to notify you about tasks before their deadline so you don’t forget.
Admittedly, procrastination can impact anyone, regardless of how organized and driven one might be. While it often leads to stress and unfinished tasks, it is not necessarily negative. Sometimes, putting things off gives individuals the space to reflect and eventually approach the task with a clearer mindset, potentially leading to better results. On the other hand, when it becomes a habit it can create more pressure and affect overall productivity. Recognizing and finding ways to manage this can help individuals stay on track without rushing last minute.