The 10 Biggest Procrastination Blunders

April 5, 2016 | No Comments

As we all know, the semester is coming to an end in a mere 5 weeks or so. It’s time to buckle down and focus on finals which are slowly creeping up on us. Are you falling victim to any of these 10 common procrastination blunders?

  1. Your phone is always in your hands.
giphy of cartoon students in classroom


If you find that you’re constantly on your phone when the professor’s speaking, odds are you’re not absorbing any information that could help you in the long run.

2. Using food as a distraction.

giphy of a woman asking to go get some pizza


While it’s important to stay fueled and hydrated, snacking to procrastinate is problematic in more ways than one. Eat when you’re hungry, rather than mindlessly snacking to avoid doing the work.

3. Watching TV while you study.

giphy of SpongeBob eating in front of TV


TV is distracting no mater what you’re doing… you may think it will help pass the time while you read your textbook, but you’ll find yourself still stuck on page three after five episodes.

4. Daydreaming about vacation.

giphy of a person saying "It's time to have some fun and relax."


Yes, some people may be having more fun than you are, but despite what Scott Disick says, you’ll have much more fun and relaxation once you know all your studying and working hard is over.

5. Giving up on yourself.

giphy of a person leaving their office space saying "I got nothing."


Giving up on yourself will hold you back from completing your tasks in a timely manner. Remind yourself: YOU CAN! AND YOU WILL!

6. Uncontrollable sobbing.

giphy of a person crying


We agree, finals can make anyone want to cry. And yes, sometimes you need to let it all out. But in the end, tears will not help you pass your test. Cheer up and kick some finals butt! And if that seems impossible, give Student Counseling Services a call to learn what services they offer.

7. Dance breaks.

giphy of a TV host and Elmo the red puppet dancing together


Dancing will help to get your blood flowing and your brain working – a quick break or two to dance your heart out is encouraged! However, turning your entire study time into a dance party will set you back. Use a dance break once you’re done! Celebrate!

8. Watching the grass grow.

giphy of people standing with white flags forming the phrase "Give up"


If you find yourself so bored that watching the grass grow is preferable to studying, it’s time to try some new tactics. You may need a break [see number 7] or a new strategy. Try to make your subject more interesting by creating games to help you study. Or find a buddy in class to study with. Or check out the Rinella Learning Center website for more ideas!

9. Instagramming.

giphy of Kim Kardanshian saying "I Instagram and do fun things no matter what I'm doing."


As much as we wish it would, Instagramming a picture of you studying will not actually help you study. And you know once you open up that innocent app icon on your phone, you’re committed to scrolling the feed for the next 15 minutes. Don’t do it!

10. Constant worrying.

giphy of a person sweating in worry


Worrying will do nothing but prevent you from completing your goal! Prepare adequately and then trust in your preparation. You will get through it!