Searcy, AR (LP) — The definition of procrastination is putting off activities that were planned or scheduled, for activities that are of a lesser importance. Many people procrastinate and most do it without even noticing. It can jeopardize many careers and make you lose money? You don’t want that to happen, do you? Statistics show that 40% of people have experienced it. 

According to some researchers, procrastination has more than quadrupled in the last 30 years. Wesley Johnson, senior at Searcy High School says, “I personally think that it (procrastination) has increased because a lot of things have changed in the past 30 years. Technology has been added to the mix, so people put Netflix, social media, and more in front of their responsibilities.” When things start to pile up, people may have to start multitasking. Which can be difficult for some people with anxiety and attention disorders. 

In a survey of DSU students, 57% said they feel a mix of liking procrastination because it gives them a rush and disliking it because it makes them feel stressed. Some people can work under pressure and could possibly work in those circumstances. Emily Powell, parent of a Searcy High School student says, “My kids put themselves in situations because of procrastination. I see that they become stressed and put it off even more because they can’t focus. Procrastinating is digging yourself a deep hole.” Surveys suggest that 85 to 95% of students have problems with procrastination. 

Now that students have a chance to do virtual schooling, procrastination has most likely increased in schools. Wesley shares, “I used to procrastinate in earlier years of high school, but for my senior year, I’m doing virtual. Since I moved to virtual school, my procrastination has gotten worse. Next nine weeks, I’m working harder on not procrastinating.” A lot of people need to have guidelines when working on assignments, so on-site school might be the best choice for many. 

You can always improve how much you procrastinate. Emily says, “I try to tell myself to ‘Just do it’ but sometimes it’s hard to do that. You get in your own head, so sometimes you have to reset. Take a ten minute break, drink some water and then try again.” Planners can help, too. If you remember to write in them. Procrastination can always get better and it doesn’t define who you are. Things can get difficult, but don’t get in your head and discourage yourself.