Procrastination. It’s a word that can cause anxiety in the hearts of students and frustration into the minds of parents. Whether it’s putting off studying for exams, delaying the start of a homework assignment, or avoiding revision altogether, procrastination is a common issue among school children. But what causes it, and more importantly, how can it be overcome?

What is Procrastination?

Firstly, let’s address the root causes of procrastination. One major factor is a lack of motivation. When students don’t see the immediate relevance or importance of a task, they’re more likely to postpone it in favour of activities that provide instant gratification, such as scrolling through social media or playing video games. Fear of failure can also play a significant role. Students may procrastinate because they’re afraid of not meeting expectations or making mistakes. Additionally, poor time management skills and a tendency to underestimate the time required to complete tasks can lead to procrastination.

How can it be overcome?

So, how can students overcome procrastination? One effective strategy is to break tasks down into smaller, more manageable chunks. By setting specific, achievable goals, students can avoid feeling overwhelmed and increase their sense of accomplishment as they make progress. Creating a study schedule or to-do list can also help students stay organised and focused. By allocating dedicated time for each task, students can minimise distractions and make efficient use of their study time.

Moreover, fostering a growth mindset can be instrumental in combating procrastination. Encouraging students to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles can help them develop resilience and perseverance. By reframing setbacks as learning experiences, students can overcome the fear of failure that often leads to procrastination.

How a Tutor can help

Now let’s discuss how having a tutor can support students in overcoming procrastination. Tutors can provide personalised guidance and support tailored to the individual needs of each student. By working closely with a tutor, students can develop effective study strategies and time management skills. Tutors can also help students set realistic goals and hold them accountable for their progress. Furthermore, tutors can offer encouragement and motivation, helping students stay focused and on track even when faced with challenges.  In addition, if a child is feeling overwhelmed and putting a task off, a tutor can help to break any tasks downs into manageable chunks to help the student overcome their fear of starting it.

To Conclude

In conclusion, procrastination is a common problem among school children, but it’s not insurmountable. By understanding the underlying causes of procrastination and implementing effective strategies to overcome it, students can take control of their academic success. Whether it’s breaking tasks down into smaller chunks, fostering a growth mindset, or seeking support from a tutor, there are plenty of ways for students to beat procrastination and reach their full potential.