Time Management

Beating procrastination

Self-discipline 

‘Self-discipline is the magic habit’ (Zillar, 2019) 

Self-discipline involves replacing the unhealthy habits that we have accumulated over time with more desirable ones: for example, regularly staying up late and not getting enough sleep can impact on our ability to attend lectures and seminars that start early in the morning. This can also affect our ability to stay focused and absorb essential information, so we might want to create better sleep habits that enable us to function and perform better. Being disciplined should not be equated to self-punishment, it should be viewed as merely correcting unhelpful behaviours to help us become a better version of ourselves and overcome problems and challenges that get in the way. 

Many of us have aspects of our lives where we struggle to apply self-discipline, such as maintaining regular exercise or managing finances, and we often beat ourselves up for not doing better - but that isn’t helpful. We need take a step back and look at our behaviours in a more positive light and see how we can implement healthier habits in their place. If we put time aside to evaluate what we are doing, we can construct a new plan that will enable us to take positive steps towards our goals. Sticking to the plan takes self-discipline to action, but this can help to build resilience in the face of setbacks or challenging academic situations. 

Build your willpower and attention

Motivate yourself: Find some intrinsic interest in learning or set yourself some external rewards:

Intrinsic personal rewards, e.g.:

Willpower is like a muscle; every time you resist tempting distractions you will build your willpower up.

Make sure that you sleep well and eat well, and optimise your body's energy, environment, and working schedule, to maximise your chance of focusing and achieving success.