We have all procrastinated at least once in our lives. It is an extremely common behavior. But why do we procrastinate even when we know things will get worse? Actually, this issue is not simply due to laziness. Psychologists refer to it as ‘procrastination’. This term, etymologically meaning ‘tomorrow’, describes the habit of delaying tasks until tomorrow.
The Severity of Procrastination
Procrastination does not just end with delaying tasks. It can cause serious problems in various areas such as our health, academics, and job performance. Studies show that about 15-20% of adults suffer from problems due to procrastination, and 80-95% of college students procrastinate. This can lead to lower academic performance, increased stress, and even negative impacts on health.
How Much Do I Procrastinate?
One tool to measure the degree of procrastination is the GPS-9. This test is useful for checking your procrastination habits. Rate the following statements on a scale from 1 (not at all) to 5 (very much so).
- I often waste time doing other things before starting a task with a deadline.
- I always say, “I’ll do it tomorrow.”
- I usually finish tasks well before the deadline.
- I usually delay starting tasks.
- I do everything I planned to do today.
- I play or rest only after completing my tasks.
- I often don’t complete simple tasks for several days.
- I often do tasks today that I planned to do days ago.
- I buy essential items at the last moment.
An average score of 27-28 is typical, while 34-35 is in the top 10%.
Causes of Procrastination
The causes of procrastination are diverse. They include the nature of the task, individual differences, beliefs, and thinking patterns. Among these, the nature of the task plays a significant role. For example, we tend to procrastinate when the reward or punishment is far away. Additionally, we procrastinate more on tasks that are unpleasant, lack autonomy, seem meaningless, or lack feedback.
Job Crafting to Change the Nature of Tasks
This is where ‘job crafting’ comes in. It refers to changing the nature of tasks to make them easier and more enjoyable. For instance, you can use methods to enhance your skills or make the task easier. You can also reduce interactions with people who make the task unpleasant.
Individual Differences and Procrastination
The degree of procrastination varies from person to person, even if the task itself is the same. As people get older and have higher achievement desires, procrastination decreases. Additionally, personality traits such as conscientiousness, agreeableness, extraversion, and neuroticism are related to procrastination. Particularly, people with lower conscientiousness tend to procrastinate more.
Overcoming Procrastination
To overcome procrastination, it is important to first identify your procrastination patterns. Then, try job crafting to change the nature of tasks. Setting small goals and experiencing a sense of achievement as you accomplish them can also help.
Finally, we need to support each other in reducing procrastination. Small changes can make a big difference. May you all reduce procrastination and move towards a better tomorrow.
References
- Psychology Journal, “Procrastination Habits and Their Psychological Causes”
- College Lifestyle Research, “Procrastination Among College Students and Its Impact”
- Productivity Blog, “Changing Task Nature Through Job Crafting”