You sit down to revise. Textbooks open, highlighters ready, to-do list written. But instead of getting stuck in, you suddenly feel the need to tidy your room, scroll through TikTok or stare into space.
Sound familiar? That’s procrastination.
It’s not laziness. In fact, procrastination is often your brain’s way of trying to cope with stress, anxiety or boredom. It chooses what feels good in the moment over what’s best in the long run.
Understanding what’s behind procrastination can help you take control of it.
Why we procrastinate?
Fear of failure
Worried about getting a bad grade? Sometimes, avoiding revision feels like a way to avoid that pressure. If you don’t try, you can’t fail, or so your brain tells you. But the truth is, this makes things harder in the long run.
Perfectionism
You might be waiting for the perfect study plan, the perfect place to revise, or the perfect moment to start. But if you’re always waiting, you end up doing nothing at all.
Low motivation
If your exams feel far off or your goals feel out of reach, it’s hard to stay focused. Sometimes, revision just feels dull, and your brain will look for something more interesting.
Feeling overwhelmed
When there’s a lot to do, it’s easy to feel stuck. Rather than tackle one small task, your brain tries to protect you by avoiding it altogether.
Simple ways to get started
If studying feels like a chore, change how you approach it. These small shifts can help your brain see it differently.
- Just five minutes – Start by telling yourself you’ll revise for five minutes. Often, once you begin, it’s easier to keep going
- Turn it into a challenge – Make a game out of it. Set a target and reward yourself when you reach it
- Switch locations – A change of scenery can help reset your mindset. Try your school library or even a different room
- Study with someone – You don’t need to talk. Just sitting next to a friend who’s also working can help you stay focused.
Support that helps you succeed
At [Insert site name] College, we understand that studying isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve created a supportive environment to help you stay motivated and in control of your learning.
You’ll find:
- private study spaces
- expert teachers
- tailored academic support
- a team that cares about your wellbeing
We’re here to help you reach your goals without the stress.
Ready to take the next step? Explore our courses and find the right fit for your future here: https://centralstmichaels.ac.uk/sixth-form-courses/