The urge to procrastinate is completely normal, but, using partnership and a coworking partner can address the root of the problem.
Procrastination, the act of delaying or postponing tasks, is a universal human experience and something many of us have in common, regardless of our academic level or where we are in our careers. From students putting off assignments, to employees avoiding deadlines, it is a common struggle that can significantly impact our productivity and overall well-being.
Numerous studies have shown that collaborating with others can significantly boost productivity and reduce procrastination. When we work with a partner, we're less likely to succumb to the distractions or the allure of procrastination. Here's why:
Accountability
Accountability is a concept we are all pretty familiar with (stemming from our relationships with our parents, friends, and colleagues). Knowing that someone else is aware of our tasks and progress creates a sense of accountability. We're less likely to slack off when we know someone is expecting us to deliver results (especially good ones).
According to an American Society of Training & Development study, you are 95% more likely to succeed by simply directing accountability to a third party and having consistent check-ins with them. If you are struggling with isolation, or don’t have an accountability partner to work with, ConcentrAid’s virtual co-working space can find you one, and many more! You and your partner can choose whether you would like to discuss your current tasks or take some quiet time during the breaks. Another person’s presence will engage your sense of accountability and lead to increased productivity.
Since you will have booked a ConcentrAid session ahead of time, this should motivate you to join, since you will feel a sense of obligation and commitment.
Motivation
Working with others can be highly motivating. Seeing our peers actively engaged in their work and achieving their goals can inspire us to stay focused and productive, to see similar results. It can also provide a sense of togetherness and community, which can also help to combat feelings of isolation.
Problem Solving
When we collaborate with somebody else, we can draw on each other's strengths and perspectives to solve problems more efficiently. This can help us to overcome obstacles that might otherwise lead to procrastination, or hesitancy in performing certain tasks.
Reduced Boredom
Working alone can be monotonous and boring. Collaborating with others can make the work more enjoyable and engaging, reducing the temptation to procrastinate. Boredom is a common feeling among students, so utilizing partnerships is an excellent tip for learning how to deal with academic burnout.
In the Case of PhD Students:
A study published in the Journal of Higher Education found that PhD students who participated in collaborative research projects were significantly less likely to procrastinate than those who worked independently. This is attributed to the increased accountability, motivation, and support provided by working with others. Students at this level are particularly susceptible to procrastination due to the demanding nature of their work. Long hours, high expectations, and the pressure to publish can all contribute to feelings of overwhelm and procrastination.
Here are some tips for effective collaboration:
By working with others, you can overcome procrastination, improve your productivity, and achieve your goals more effectively. So, the next time you're feeling overwhelmed or tempted to procrastinate, consider teaming up with a partner here at ConcentrAid!
Best,
Team ConcentrAid