Have you ever procrastinated and wished you were better at managing your time? Did you ever think that being a procrastinator meant being disorganized, stressed, and lazy? I am here to tell you that this is not the case. Being a professional procrastinator myself, I have learned over the years that there are many benefits to procrastination. Through this understanding, I would rather be a procrastinator than someone who plans their life three weeks in advance. Of course, life management strategies vary from person to person, but if you are a procrastinator, be proud, realize you are not alone, and understand you have the skills to excel farther than most.
When people procrastinate, they will often have a sudden rush of energy. This occurs due to the realization of needing to complete the project. The excuses used previously will no longer prolong the inevitable. Because of this, the procrastinator has to kick it into overdrive in order to successfully meet the deadline. This is a long-lasting energy spike whose duration will usually last for as long as the project is being worked on. The benefit of this energy is that we are actively training our brain to kick it up a notch when working on an important task. Not only that, but we are channeling our energy towards something specific rather than multiple different items. This can help in accomplishing goals both inside outside of procrastination. We are able to remain energized while also working fast and efficiently
Procrastination also means there is a short window to complete the task at hand. As a result, those who procrastinate tend to have an enhanced sense of focus when working towards the accomplishment of their goal. This focus, paired with the benefits of the energy spike, can be a deadly combination. When there is a deadline and the project has not been completed, the only item on the person’s mind is finishing that project. Previous distractions will no longer be the problem. If you are a procrastinator like me, I am sure you have felt this level of focus. It is amazing what people can accomplish when they are backed into a corner. This level of focus can also result in one’s work being of high quality. Not all procrastinators wait until the last minute only to do the bare minimum required. Most procrastinators wait until the last minute with the thought of doing good work in a short period of time. Because they are so focused on getting the project done, they are able to think and strategize without distractions getting in the way. This aids in increasing the quality of the work while still managing to meet the deadlines.
Completing a task through energy spikes and enhanced focus is great, but one of the greatest benefits of procrastination is its aid in lowering anxiety. To non-procrastinators, you might be thinking, “how can someone lower their anxiety levels by waiting until the last minute?” The answer is in the question. The reason why most people procrastinate is because they are avoiding something that they would rather do later. Procrastinators would rather enjoy themselves presently and put off their projects for as long as possible. Thus, rather than stress over that paper due in two weeks, they will watch TV, go for a walk, etc. While everyone around them is stressing over getting it done, the procrastinator will be relaxing, knowing they will get to it at some point. I personally have had conversations with my brother where he would do papers three weeks in advance. Being a procrastinator, I could never do that, not just because there is too much to enjoy in the now, but also because I find it inefficient. My brother and people like him will argue that doing a paper three weeks in advance is just as beneficial for lowering anxiety. Depending on the person, this can be true, but most of the time it is better to wait. You can still plan and strategize while waiting to complete the task. This is why I find efficiency in waiting, because that planning can be used to raise the quality of certain tasks while also speeding up the completion process.
I suggest that everyone procrastinate from time to time. Procrastination can be freeing and will train your brain in becoming more efficient when working. Not every task thrown your way has to be completed immediately. What is important to remember is that you will complete your task, so do not stress over it. Life is about hard work, but it is also about relaxation and happiness. You cannot expect to accomplish your goals if you are stressed all of the time. Move some things to the side and give yourself some breathing space. Do what has to be done and worry about what can be put off in the future. I guarantee you will see small changes in your life.
Song of the Blog
Today’s Song is “Listen To The Music,” by The Doobie Brothers! Listen while reading for a better experience!
Social Media
Credits
Comments
Post a Comment