The Procrastination Trap
Overcoming Procrastination After 50
I’m over 50, and yet, here I am, falling prey to its sly tactics.
Let me share my journey, not as a tale of woe, but as a testament to the power of understanding and overcoming this universal adversary.
The Procrastination Trap
My task is straightforward: memorize and deliver scripts for six segments of a training program I deeply respect and eagerly anticipate teaching. And yet, I find myself baking muffins, washing six loads of laundry, and cleaning the house — classic procrastination tactics. It’s almost comical how inventively I avoid what I need to do.
Recognizing this, I engage in what experts call ‘metacognition’ — thinking about thinking. Aware of my mental processes, I decide to tackle the most challenging part of the sections first. But within 20 minutes, I’m scrolling through social media. Clearly, my initial strategy isn’t working.
Strategy Shift: Embracing Passion
In my second attempt, I flip the script. I start with the section I’m most passionate about — the one exploring the intricacies of our brain. This time, something clicks. My passion ignites a level of focus and engagement that keeps me going. The lesson here is clear: connect with your passion, and you’ll find your flow.
Overcoming Procrastination: More Than Just Willpower
It’s a misconception that overcoming procrastination is solely about willpower. It’s more complex, especially for those of us over 50. Our brains change as we age, and so do our motivations and methods of learning. Recognizing this is crucial.
Embrace Your Age, Embrace Your Style
Firstly, accept that your learning style might have evolved. What worked in your 20s might not be as effective now. Be open to new methods of learning. Perhaps you find visual aids more helpful now or require more frequent breaks. Acknowledging and adapting to these changes is not a sign of weakness but of wisdom.
Break It Down
One effective strategy is to break your study material into smaller, more manageable segments. This reduces the overwhelm and makes the task seem less daunting. Each small victory builds momentum, pushing you past the inertia of procrastination.
Leverage Technology Wisely
While technology can be a distraction, it can also be a powerful ally. Use apps to block social media during study times, or try digital flashcards for memorization. But remember, technology is a tool, not a crutch. It should aid, not dominate, your study process.
Mindfulness and Reflection
Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation, can enhance focus and reduce the anxiety that often fuels procrastination. Regular reflection on your study process can also provide insights into what works and what doesn’t, allowing for real-time adjustments.
Accountability
Having a study buddy or a coach can make a significant difference. They can provide the external motivation and accountability that sometimes is hard to muster on your own. This is especially true for those who thrive on social interaction and external validation.
Reward Yourself
Setting up a reward system can be highly effective. It can be as simple as treating yourself to something enjoyable after a study session. This positive reinforcement can create a Pavlovian response, making study sessions something to look forward to.
The Emotional Dimension
Finally, it’s crucial to address the emotional aspects of procrastination. It’s often rooted in fear — fear of failure, fear of not being good enough, or even fear of success. As a leadership mindset coach, I emphasize the importance of confronting these fears. Understand that they are normal, but they don’t define your capabilities or your worth.
Embrace Failure as a Teacher
Failure is not the opposite of success; it’s part of the journey to success. Each mistake is a learning opportunity and a stepping stone towards your goal. Embracing this mindset can alleviate the pressure that leads to procrastination.
Final Thoughts
Studying for an oral exam, especially later in life, is as much about understanding and adapting to your mental and emotional landscape as it is about the material itself. Overcoming procrastination requires a multifaceted approach that includes embracing your passion, adapting your learning style, leveraging technology, practicing mindfulness, seeking accountability, rewarding yourself, and confronting your fears.
Remember, procrastination is a common foe, but it’s not invincible. With the right strategies and mindset, you can overcome it, no matter your age.
As I return to my study materials, reinvigorated and focused, I invite you to join me in this battle against procrastination. Together, let’s turn our supposed weaknesses into our greatest strengths.
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