No one knows about procrastination quite like online learners. It is often too easy to delay your studies when you don’t have to physically attend a class or work towards a deadline.
Whilst IoSCM offers an unrivalled support package with the aim to motivate, guide and advise students at every stage of their learning journey, there’s no pressure. IoSCM know how complicated and overwhelming life can become, so we don’t pursue you but allow you to contact us for assistance at any time.
In contrast, it can be difficult for individuals to plan their own study schedule, stay focused and complete tasks without set dates and limits. But it’s one of the many, and most important, skills you can benefit from when studying via distance learning. Acquiring the valuable ability to self-direct, motivate yourself and complete a full qualification will build your confidence and enhance your employability.
To help our learners fight procrastination, the Institute of Supply Chain Management has prepared our top five tips in dealing with the temptation to stall.
1. Plan Your Routine
Set yourself certain days and times that you are to study. Plan it into your weekly routine and make it public, therefore discouraging friends and family to ask you to do something other than your online learning. Sticking vehemently to a schedule and staying organised will be vital to not falling behind. Whilst you may not have a deadline when studying with IoSCM, it doesn’t mean that you can’t set one for yourself. It may help motivate and drive you to complete.
2. Little and Often
Procrastination often results when you’re overwhelmed by the enormity of a task. IoSCM recommend breaking up your workload into smaller, more manageable tasks. Whilst it may initially seem like a wise idea to set aside three hours one day a week to study, after hour two you may start to feel tired, lose focus and lack interest in your work. Breaking it down into three one hour sessions per week will produce a higher standard of work due to heightened engagement.
3. Do the Worst, First
Tackle the hardest, most unappealing task when your energy is fresh and you will give yourself the strongest chance of success. It may not be the biggest job, it may just be the question or task you least want to attempt, but once it is complete you’ll not only feel relief but achievement too. The accomplishment will release a second consignment of motivation for you to continue your studies.
4. Change Your Environment
Trying to study or write an important assignment isn’t likely to be very productive whilst you’re sat in front of the television or even surrounded by your family. Create yourself a quiet space that you can sit with a clear head and no distractions. An office-like environment is proven to be the most effective way to do work at home. So if you have a desk in your home or even a dining room table, try changing where you are trying to study and see if you feel an improvement in your attention span.
5. Reward Your Progress
What could be more motivating than an incentive? Set yourself goals or milestones and reward yourself with every achievement. It doesn’t have to be extravagant, but instead present yourself with a little something that will make you feel proud and stimulate encouragement to reach the next objective.
And just remember that all work and no play isn’t healthy. One of the best ways to fight procrastination is to consider yourself and not add additional pressure or stress to your current circumstances. If you miss a study period, allow it and propose to catch up another day. As long as you plan and stay focused, you can be lenient and flexible with your studies. That’s one of the many benefits of studying with the Institute.
If you’re currently an IoSCM student, remember to stay in regular contact with your mentor. They are dedicated to you and your success, providing unlimited support from the moment you enrol. If you ever feel stuck or are struggling to fight the procrastination, IoSCM Mentors can help.
Let us know your strategies for fighting procrastination by sharing your favourite tips with IoSCM on Twitter. #IoSCMFightProcrastination
It can be difficult for individuals to plan their own study schedule, stay focused and complete tasks without set dates and limits. But it’s one of the many, and most important, skills you can benefit from when studying via distance learning.