How to beat procrastination (Tips very much apprecciated)

Hi,
So I keep having work that needs to be done but I keep putting it off and I spend time distracting myself on my phone or watching youtube on my laptop, even tho I need to work on my laptop.

Does anyone have any experience with this and knows any tips for how to tune out all distractions and get work done effectively?
Much appricate any responses because this has been annyoing me for a couple of days now.

Reply 1

BCU Student Rep

Official Rep

Original post

by cbush6016

Hi,
So I keep having work that needs to be done but I keep putting it off and I spend time distracting myself on my phone or watching youtube on my laptop, even tho I need to work on my laptop.
Does anyone have any experience with this and knows any tips for how to tune out all distractions and get work done effectively?
Much appricate any responses because this has been annyoing me for a couple of days now.

Hi @cbush6016

Procrastination can be tricky one, but you're in a good position as you've noticed you're putting off work.

Try having a designated space to work if you can and make this a no phone zone while you're working. I used to find allocating a space to work helped me to distinguish between work and rest, which might be what you're missing if you're trying to work on your laptop while on the sofa or in bed, for example.

Time on your phone and laptop is also allowed! Believe it or not, you can do effective work and still scroll mindlessly on your phone, just not at the same time. Try to work in timed conditions which can be anything from 10 minute intervals up to a couple of hours - whatever suits you best. And after each block of time working, have a break.
This works well with the allocated workspace point as you can step away from your work for a quick break. Just remember, don't milk your breaks - you want your working time to be longer than your break time, so try not to fall down a scrolling wormhole. Maybe a short YouTube video and then back to work.

Don't ignore the other important stuff in your life too. Work is very important, but you'll only do more harm if prioritize it too much ad become burnt out. Make sure you're getting enough sleep, maybe some exercise, seeing friends, keeping your living space clean and tidy. All these things can make you feel more energized and ready to work, and letting yourself sacrifice other important things to your work can sometimes lead you right back to procrastination again as you feel so out of control with your routine. It's about pacing yourself and building work into your routine and schedule and not building your life around working.

I hope this helps and you start to get back on track. You'll get there! 🙂
Emily
Student Rep at BCU

Reply 2

username7107365

Thanks, I've got a big whiteboard that sits over my desk that really helps me to get studying becuase I can write as much content as I can on it lol. I've always thought about my phone, I bought a desk tidy organiser with a draw for the sole purpose of shutting my phone in a draw. I need to do this more often so I can put a physical barrier between me and my phone.

(edited 1 year ago)

Reply 3

geobotsar

Original post

by cbush6016

Hi,
So I keep having work that needs to be done but I keep putting it off and I spend time distracting myself on my phone or watching youtube on my laptop, even tho I need to work on my laptop.
Does anyone have any experience with this and knows any tips for how to tune out all distractions and get work done effectively?
Much appricate any responses because this has been annyoing me for a couple of days now.

Hi there! Procrastination is something many of us struggle with, especially when working on computers with easy access to distractions. Here are some practical tips that have helped many developers stay focused:

•

Use the Pomodoro Technique

•

Work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break

•

During work time, close all distracting apps/tabs

•

Use this break as a reward for focused work

•

Create a distraction-free environment

•

Install website blockers (like Forest or Cold Turkey)

•

Put your phone in another room or on Do Not Disturb

•

Use a dedicated workspace if possible

•

Break tasks into smaller chunks

•

Instead of "I need to code this feature," break it into 15-30 minute tasks

•

Write these down and check them off as you complete them

•

Small wins create momentum!

•

Use the "5-minute rule"

•

Tell yourself you'll work for just 5 minutes

•

Often, you'll find yourself wanting to continue once you've started

•

If not, at least you've made some progress!

•

Set up your development environment properly

•

Have a separate user profile for work

•

Use full-screen mode for your IDE

•

Configure your workspace to minimize distractions

Remember: procrastination often comes from feeling overwhelmed or uncertain. Starting small and building momentum is key. Don't be too hard on yourself - it's a common challenge, and you're already taking positive steps by seeking solutions!