How To Stop Procrastinating In Your Studies (Or Any Other Project) In Five Easy, Insightful Steps.
This article was originally written for the Connect Magazine, for their "Common Ground" Edition: December 2023, January-February 2024 Edition #171
And just like this, we have a spark of inspiration, a burst of energy, the seed of a dream
sprouting inside us, and we know, deep down, that this is our higher self encouraging us to
be true to ourselves, to contribute to the world in the most powerful way.
So we enrol in a course with enthusiasm and optimism, and we embark on the path of education and career growth. It is a shiny and exciting path, and we anticipate the brighter future it will bring to ourselves and the people we will serve. We are excited to make the world a better place whilst fulfilling our truest desires. Sky’s the limit!
Along the way, the shine fades, life gets busy, and we find ourselves struggling to maintain our motivation and rhythm. Our studies take the back seat, and we sigh thinking it should
have been much easier.
But hang on, what happened to that beautiful energy? Where did this doubt come from?
How did this course become so irritating; the goal, so far away?
We want to be done with it, but right now all we see is the pile of assignments and the backlog of lectures to catch up on.
Could there be a common ground? A compromise? A way to finish that course in one piece?
The key to finding this common ground is to bridge the gap between our current selves and the individual we aspire to become. Finding the truth and the balance between our present and future self is key to navigating the demands of a study program.
"The key to finding this common ground is to bridge the gap between our current selves and the individual we aspire to become."
Let’s explore how we can make this journey more manageable and rewarding.
1. Self-Compassion
First and foremost, it’s crucial to be compassionate with
ourselves. To recognise that it’s entirely normal to feel unmotivated or drained by the demands of a study program when we are already busy with our current reality.
2. Impulse Control
Acknowledge when procrastination or distractions threaten your progress. Observe your thoughts when you turn your reminder off and you decide “not today”.
By recognising these self-sabotaging behaviours, you can regain control and redirect your focus towards your study goals.
3. Keeping your Ultimate Goal in Mind
The rigidity and complexity of a study program become easier to handle when we keep our ultimate outcome and beautiful goal in sight.
Visualise the positive impact your qualifications will have on your life and the world around you. Use this vision as a powerful motivator.
"The rigidity and complexity of a study program become easier to handle when we keep our ultimate outcome and beautiful goal in sight."
4. Limiting Distractions
Identify the things that divert your attention while studying and implement strategies to minimise them. Whether it’s setting specific study hours, turning off notifications, or creating a clutter-free study space, taking control of your environment can significantly improve your focus.
5. Small Changes for Big Progress
Consider the aspects of your journey that you can control. Small lifestyle and mindset adjustments can make a significant difference in your progress.
Ask yourself powerful and empowering questions:
1. How could I build a supportive network of like-minded individuals?
2. Who could I connect with to boost my motivation and inspiration?
3. What changes can I make to my study environment to make it more appealing and productive?
4. What new habits or rituals could I introduce to enhance my progress, and my success journey?
5. What clarifications and support do I need?
6. What boundaries should I establish with myself and others to maintain steady progress?
You've got this!
In your midlife journey towards fulfillment and career growth, remember that you are not alone. Many others are walking a similar path, facing the same challenges. By finding common ground within ourselves and with others, we can transform our midlife study experience into a time of growth, inspiration, and achievement.
Keep in mind the balance between what feels good now and what will feel even better once you achieve your educational and career goals.
Your path may be challenging, but it is a journey worth every step.
Remember that an accredited Life Coach is professionally trained to help you go through changes in the easiest, most effective way.
I'm here to help! And I'll leave you with this funny yet powerful quote:
" The best time to start was yesterday. The next best time is now."
About the Author
Hi! I'm Sophie and I am so glad you're here! I help women and men make small, incremental changes that create a positive ripple effect on their entire life.
You have the power to turn your life around, starting today.
I am here to help you succeed.
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