Procrastination
How Do You teach someone else not to procrastinate? We can talk about it in theory, but what makes people change?
Daisy, Interesting to hear this. Sometimes life gives you the best feedback of all. When we can't keep up with our current tasks, we often have to find new systems or approaches. We become more efficient if we are lucky.
Dr. Melissa Read
Well, I had the habit of procrastinating. the way that I broke it was when I became an instructor and was not able to keep up with my task. Yes, life is the best instructor.
I think the best way to teach individuals not to procrastinate is to role-model and show them results gained from not procrastinating. It will also be beneficial to work with them when they require an assist.
I do not anticipate that this will be an easy habit to break. Practice and support will be the Key to success.
Earnest J. Kendall, MSN, RN-BC
Stephen, This is true, at least to a point. Getting tasks completed right away is a great approach. However, some of us suffer from immediacy issues. Trying to get too much completed at once can be stifling and counterproductive.
Dr. Melissa Read
Most people that procrastinate end up finding themselves playing catchup at some point and time, if they want to avoid this they will quit playing this game and start trying to do things as soon as posible.
I agree that when you experience a negative outcomes from procrastination it teaches you to not make that same mistake twice. In the case of one of my previous students. The thought that if she just socializes in the classroom and does not work until its due. She will receive a favorable grade. To her dismay, her grade reflected a lower grade because of handing in late work. This was a tough lesson for this student. It has not been repeated since.
Ian, That's a great question and you are right to consider the difference between theory and practice. Sometimes life experiences are the best teacher. Sometimes procrastinators have to experience the negative outcomes of procrastination in order to change.
Dr. Melissa Read
