Name: Zara, Sophia Nicole P.

Section: STEM 1102

Procrastination: A Common Obstacle in Academics

We live in a world filled with distractions and demands on our time, making it
increasingly challenging to stay focused and manage our tasks efficiently.
Procrastination, the act of delaying or postponing tasks, is a habit that many of us
have succumbed to at some point in our lives. In our generation, procrastination is a
pervasive issue that affects countless individuals in academic settings.

According to Pychyl and Flett (2012) procrastination is not simply a matter of

poor time management or laziness, but a complex psychological behavior rooted in
emotions such as fear, anxiety, and perfectionism. These emotions often lead to
feelings of overwhelm, resulting in a vicious cycle of avoidance and increased stress.
As students, we are constantly juggling multiple responsibilities, assignments, and
deadlines. Thus, it is crucial to understand the consequences of procrastination and
embrace proactive measures to combat it.

Evidence suggests that procrastination not only hampers academic

performance, but also adversely affects mental health. In a study conducted by
Sirois (2014), it was found that chronic procrastinators experienced higher levels of
stress, anxiety, and depression. These negative emotions can further perpetuate the
cycle of avoidance, making it increasingly difficult to break free from the grip of
procrastination.

In conclusion, the pervasive issue of procrastination in our generation is not

merely a result of poor time management, but a complex psychological behavior
intertwined with fear, anxiety, and perfectionism. As we navigate a world filled with
distractions and constant demands, understanding the profound consequences of
procrastination on academic performance and mental health becomes crucial. To
break free from this cycle, we must embrace proactive measures, fostering a
mindset that values focus, effective time management, and mental well-being as we
strive for academic success.
References:

Pychyl, T. A., & Flett, G. L. (2012). Procrastination and self-regulatory failure: An

introduction to the special issue. Journal of Rational-Emotive & Cognitive-Behavior
Therapy, 30(4), 203-212.

Sirois, F. M. (2014). Procrastination and stress: Exploring the role of self-

compassion. Self and Identity, 13(2), 128-145.