Title: Struggling with Procrastination—Seeking Advice from Fellow Computer Engineering Students
Hey everyone, I’m a computer engineering student grappling with a significant procrastination issue. I’m genuinely concerned that if I don’t address it soon, it could derail my academic journey and life overall. I thought it might be helpful to share my situation openly and see if any of you have insights or strategies that could help. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
Here’s my story:
What’s Behind My Procrastination: Studying often feels tedious, and I find myself drawn to YouTube, scrolling through memes on Instagram, or hanging out with friends instead.
Understanding My Dilemma: I recognize the importance of studying, but it’s a challenge to motivate myself to dive in.
Can I Succeed? I believe I have the potential, yet procrastination feels like a formidable barrier.
Am I a Poor Studier? Not necessarily, but I rarely feel inspired to study, which doesn’t happen often—maybe once or twice in the past two and a half years.
Preferred Study Method: I thrive on video courses followed by exams, although I know that’s not always realistic.
How Challenging Is Studying? It can be difficult, especially when I’ve neglected prerequisites (like C programming before tackling Data Structures).
Past Attempts: I’ve experimented with binge studying, the Pomodoro technique, and even working with friends, but nothing seems to stick.
Procrastination Level: I’d say I’m definitely addicted.
Career Aspirations in Ethical Hacking: It sounds exciting, but I’m uncertain where to begin (I know it’s a bit of a romanticized idea).
Study Environment: I prefer a quiet corner of the library, though my dorm room can become a battleground between serious study and procrastination.
Loneliness While Studying: Initially, yes, but I know I’m just as capable as my peers.
Changing Study Locations: I have tried it, but cafes and busy libraries often end up being too distracting.
ADHD? I don’t think that’s the case for me.
Clean Study Space: Only when I manage to convince myself to study, which happens infrequently.
Time Spent in Dorm: Mostly in bed; I only use my desk when I’m studying or reading.
Difficulty Starting to Study: Absolutely! I can initiate studying, but I often lose motivation after just a few minutes.
Times of Productivity: It varies, with my best focus possibly coming in the evenings, as my day often starts around 2 PM on weekends.
Study Schedule: I don’t have one.
Sleep Routine: I aim for 8-9 hours but usually wake up late.
Tiredness Level: Not always, but I often feel lazy when it comes to studying or tidying up.
Caffeine Consumption: Rarely indulge in coffee or energy drinks.
Exercise Habits: I do occasional arm wrestling training, but I know that doesn’t count.
Social Media Usage: Lately, I’ve been on it for 2-3 hours, mostly because I’ve switched to grayscale mode.
Impact of Social Media on Focus: It likely has some impact, though I’ve managed to control it a bit lately.
Study Habits in Middle School: I was much more disciplined then, thanks to my mother’s support (around 3-4 hours of study daily).
Favorite Subjects: I enjoyed chemistry.
Academic Performance Background: I performed well before high school and college.
University Admission: My dad had to pay for a private university since I didn’t pass the entrance exam.
Feeling of Embarrassment: Absolutely, and it weighs heavily on me.
Majors Consideration: I haven’t thought about switching.
Choosing Computer Engineering: My dad’s financial support and a love for computers played a big role.
Dream Major: If resources and discipline were unlimited, I
It’s great that you’re willing to confront your procrastination and seek out solutions—that’s the first step towards change! Here are some strategies that might help you break the cycle:
Set Small, Achievable Goals: Start with very small tasks that can be completed quickly. This could be reading a single chapter or watching a short video. Achieving these small goals can provide you with a sense of accomplishment and motivate you to tackle larger tasks.
Create a Routine: Structure can help. Try to develop a daily schedule that allocates specific times for studying, breaks, and leisure activities. Sticking to a routine can help set a rhythm that reduces the temptation to procrastinate.
Limit Distractions: Since you’ve identified YouTube and social media as distractions, consider tools that block these sites while you study. Try the “Forest” app or “StayFocusd” as a way to incentivize focused work.
Use the Pomodoro Technique: While you’ve tried it before, perhaps adjusting the intervals could help. Instead of 25 minutes of work, try 15 minutes followed by a 5-minute break. Sometimes, smaller chunks make starting less daunting.
Find an Accountability Partner: While you prefer studying alone, having someone to check in with periodically can help keep you accountable. This doesn’t have to be a study session; it could be a quick text or call to share progress.
Mix Up Your Study Methods: You mentioned being a visual learner. Explore different resources, such as interactive coding platforms, online courses, and forums related to computer engineering and ethical hacking. Switching formats might keep things fresh and interesting.
Focus on the ‘Why’: Remind yourself why you chose computer engineering and consider the excitement of potential careers in cybersecurity. Keeping your long-term goals in mind—even visualizing them—can help you push through less engaging tasks.
Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Everyone struggles with motivation sometimes, and it’s important to acknowledge that you’re trying to improve. Celebrating small victories, even just beginning to study, can build momentum.
Exercise Regularly: Consider incorporating regular physical activity into your routine. Even short bursts of movement can help increase your energy and improve focus.
Seek Support: If you feel overwhelmed, consider talking to a counselor or mental health professional. They can provide valuable tools and support for managing procrastination and any underlying feelings of anxiety or inadequacy.
You’ve acknowledged that you want to change, and that’s a powerful insight. It may take time and some trial and error to find what works best for you, but with persistence and some adjustments, you can overcome this hurdle. Best of luck on your journey!