Did you know that 80-95% of college students admit to be procrastinating regularly?
According to the APA, around 50% even do this consistently.
Procrastination is a universal challenge that can lead to increased stress, poor performance, and even long-term health issues if left unchecked.
But here’s the good news: overcoming procrastination doesn’t require extreme changes. With a few smart strategies, you can manage your time better and keep procrastination from holding you back.
If you’re tired of the constant cycle of delay, stress, and cramming these 6 simple tricks will help you regain control of your time and boost your productivity.
1. Break tasks into bite-sized pieces
One of the most common reasons for procrastination is feeling overwhelmed by the size of a task.
When you’re faced with a big project or an important deadline, it’s easy to put it off because you don’t know where to start.
Here’s the solution: break your tasks into bite-sized pieces. Instead of thinking of the entire project, focus on the first small step, then the next.
Take writing an essay, for example. Instead of stressing about completing the entire paper, focus on:
- Creating a basic outline.
- Writing the introduction.
- Drafting one section at a time.
Once you start tackling smaller tasks, you’ll find it easier to start and maintain momentum.
Each completed piece builds confidence, and soon, you’ll have the entire task done without feeling overwhelmed.
2. The two-minute jumpstart
Have you ever heard of the two-minute rule?
This trick is based on the idea that if a task takes two minutes or less to complete, you should do it immediately. If you start something small, you’re more likely to continue working.
The trick is to trick your brain into action—because often, starting is the hardest part.
But how does this help with larger tasks?
Well, the two-minute rule can act as a jumpstart. Set a timer for two minutes and begin your work. You’ll likely find that once you get going, it’s easier to continue.
Think of it as a mini “push” to break the inertia of inaction.
Example:
- Instead of saying, “I’ll start studying for three hours,” tell yourself, “I’ll review my notes for just two minutes.” Those two minutes often turn into more.
3. Prioritize with the Eisenhower Matrix
Ever feel like you don’t know where to start because everything seems important?
That’s where the Eisenhower Matrix comes in handy.
This method helps you categorize your tasks based on urgency and importance, which helps you focus on what truly matters instead of getting lost in less crucial tasks.
Here’s how the matrix works:
- Urgent and important: Do these tasks immediately.
- Important but not urgent: Schedule these tasks.
- Urgent but not important: Delegate or minimize these tasks.
- Not urgent and not important: Consider eliminating or postponing these tasks.
The thing is that when you categorize tasks, you remove decision fatigue. Instead, you start focusing on what will have the biggest impact on your day.
Did you know?
Decision fatigue is real!
Studies show that people make worse decisions as the day progresses due to mental exhaustion. The Eisenhower Matrix helps reduce decision fatigue by clearly outlining what needs your attention.
4. Use time-blocking to focus
If you often find yourself distracted or jumping from task to task, time-blocking could be your solution.
This productivity technique involves scheduling specific blocks of time for each task or activity.
You dedicate uninterrupted time to focus solely on one task, reducing the risk of procrastination.
For instance, instead of thinking, “I’ll get to my reading assignment sometime today,” set a clear block from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM dedicated to it.
Stick to this schedule as if it were a meeting or important appointment.
Pro tip: Tools like Google Calendar or apps like Trello make time-blocking easy to manage. Block your day out in advance, ensuring that each task has its own dedicated time slot.
5. Implement the Pomodoro Technique
The Pomodoro Technique is one of the most effective ways to manage time and avoid procrastination.
It involves working in short, focused bursts—usually 25-minute intervals—followed by a short break.
After completing four intervals, take a longer break.
This method works well for people who tend to procrastinate because it makes large tasks feel less overwhelming. By breaking your work into manageable chunks, you’re more likely to stay focused and avoid distractions.
Plus, the regular breaks help prevent burnout, making it easier to stay productive throughout the day.
Want to know something surprising?
The Pomodoro Technique helps reduce mental fatigue and increase productivity. It matches the brain’s natural focus rhythms, which are typically around 25-30 minutes long.
6. Reward yourself for completing tasks
Ever notice how much easier it is to finish something when there’s a reward at the end? That’s because our brains are wired to respond to incentives.
By creating a reward system, you motivate yourself to complete tasks.
These rewards can be small—like a 10-minute social media break after 30 minutes of focused work—or bigger, such as treating yourself to something nice after a full day of productivity.
How does it work?
The act of rewarding yourself triggers the release of dopamine, a chemical that makes you feel good and encourages you to repeat positive behaviors.
Here are some ideas for small rewards:
- Take a short walk outside.
- Enjoy a favorite snack.
- Watch an episode of your favorite show after completing a major task.
Common procrastination pitfalls (and how to avoid them)
It’s not enough to know what to do — you also need to be aware of what not to do.
Here are some common procrastination pitfalls and how you can avoid them:
1. Perfectionism
Many people procrastinate because they want everything to be perfect.
But perfection is often the enemy of progress. Instead of striving for perfection, aim for progress over perfection.
Just getting started is half the battle.
2. Distractions
In today’s digital world, distractions are everywhere.
The key to avoiding them is to limit your environment.
Turn off notifications, close unnecessary browser tabs, and create a space conducive to focus.
3. Overplanning
Yes, planning is crucial—but there’s a fine line between planning and overplanning.
Some people spend more time planning than doing, which is just another form of procrastination.
Focus on doing instead of overthinking.
The power of accountability: Get others involved
One of the most overlooked ways to beat procrastination is to make yourself accountable to someone else.
Whether it’s a friend, family member, or colleague, having someone check in on your progress adds a layer of responsibility.
You’re less likely to procrastinate if you know someone is expecting results.
Tip: Join a study group or a productivity community online. Having peers working towards similar goals creates a sense of shared accountability and motivation.
Conclusion: Beat procrastination with simple, actionable steps
Procrastination can feel like a never-ending cycle, but with these six simple tricks, you can break free and regain control of your time.
It’s all about taking that first step and staying consistent.
Whether you’re managing school assignments, work projects, or personal tasks, these methods will help you stay on track, boost your productivity, and reduce the stress that comes with last-minute cramming.
Stop letting procrastination hold you back — start implementing these tricks today, and watch your productivity soar!