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Avoiding Procrastination
1. Prioritize tasks into three categories (Use a calendar with space to write)

•  Needs to be accomplished today!
•  Needs to be accomplished soon; by when?
•  Not immediate.

2. Start even if you just try to finish a 15 minute task, the momentum will carry you forward.

3. Break large tasks into manageable smaller ones: i.e., Writing a paper can become:

•  Go to the library.
•  Research your topic.
•  Read three articles.
•  Read chapter.
•  Write rough draft.
•  Revise rough draft.

4. Set deadlines to accomplish the manageable smaller tasks and treat them as real deadlines.

5. Set aside time in your week just to catch up on unfinished work.

6. Finish a task (To the greatest extent possible), but try not to be perfectionistic.

7. Celebrate what you do accomplish.

8. Block off escape routes: Study where there are fewer distractions or temptations. Regularly give yourself "rewards" or "treats" by allowing yourself to do something pleasurable. Remember most people can only concentrate completely for about 45 minutes at a time.

9. If you notice procrastination trying to take hold of you, talk back to it; don't allow it to have your power. Instead, encourage yourself to follow through, step-by-step, just like you might encourage a good friend to complete a task.

10. Be sure to schedule yourself time for self-care! Exercise, nutritional eating, rest, and time with friends are important too.

11. If you feel stuck, call the center for an appointment with a counselor at 865-5113. Asking for assistance is courageous and a good way to care for yourself.

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Contact Information
Mailing Address:
Center for Educational Resources and Counseling (ERC)
New Orleans, LA 70118-5698
Phone:(504) 865-5113
Fax:(504) 862-8148


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