Tips on Mastering Time Management for Chronic Procrastinators in Nursing
If you’ve ever found yourself cramming for an exam the night before, you’re not alone. I used to be in that exact situation, repeatedly promising myself that I wouldn’t procrastinate again, only to fall into the same pattern. Back in high school, cramming might have seemed effective, but nursing school has shown me a different story. Looking at my GPA is a reminder that cramming doesn’t work. It’s not just ineffective in retaining information; it also introduces unnecessary stress and anxiety. I entered exams feeling groggy and ill-prepared. I’d justify it to myself, saying things like, “I don’t have time to read the entire textbook” or “I’m too busy to study today.” But here’s the truth: time is available. It’s all about effectively managing it. Here are some strategies to help chronic procrastinators like me overcome this habit:
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Embrace Digital Calendars:
While I used to be a fan of traditional planners, they often ended up gathering dust after a few months or getting misplaced. Transitioning to using the calendar app on my phone was a game-changer. As soon as my professors handed out the syllabi, I would populate my calendar with all the exam dates and assignment deadlines, along with the relevant chapters associated with each exam. I set up automatic reminders for two days before assignments were due, an hour before clinicals began, and 30 minutes before class. This system ensured that I never missed an assignment, and since my phone is always within reach, I was constantly reminded of upcoming tasks.
Create False Deadlines:
That rush of adrenaline you experience when you realize you’ve procrastinated and a deadline is looming? You can harness that feeling to your advantage by setting deadlines slightly earlier than they actually are. When the fake deadline approaches, it tricks your brain into action, making you believe you’ve procrastinated enough and motivating you to start. I firmly believe that conquering procrastination starts with taking that first step.
Study Tips for Successful Home Learning
Tame Social Media Usage:
Like many, I was guilty of spending excessive time on social media—hours that often weren’t productive. By eliminating distractions, especially while studying, I found myself with more time throughout the day. This newfound time was put to good use for studying, connecting with loved ones, or indulging in self-care. Remember, moderation is key.
Harness Multitasking:
I used to waste hours during my commutes, lost in games or music. But I’ve now turned these times into opportunities to learn. I listen to voice threads from professors or nursing podcasts, selecting content that aligns with my class material. Even if I don’t fully grasp the concepts, exposure to the terminology beforehand enhances my understanding during lectures. If you’re not commuting, consider multitasking during other routine activities.
Embrace Early Mornings:
While this might sound challenging, waking up earlier can create more productive hours in your day. On days when classes or work starts early, there’s no avoiding early mornings. But even on free days, waking up earlier can boost your productivity. I made a commitment to wake up at 6 a.m. every day, establishing a routine of getting ready, studying for half an hour, and then heading to class, work, or clinicals. Admittedly, the first Sunday wake-up at 6 a.m. felt dreadful, but my body adjusted over time. Starting the day early sets a positive tone and provides the motivation needed to tackle tasks. Besides, it’s excellent practice for the longer shifts nurses often work.
Shift Your Mindset:
Changing your perspective on studying can make a significant difference. I discovered that approaching textbook reading as a pleasurable activity, rather than a memorization task, made it more engaging. To me, perception is key—viewing practice problems as a mental challenge or even turning it into a game with friends can make studying more enjoyable. Remember why you chose nursing: your passion for science and learning. Tap into that enthusiasm as you study.
By incorporating these strategies into my routine, I’ve transformed my time management skills. No longer do I find myself scrambling to meet last-minute deadlines. I approach exams with confidence and clarity. Most importantly, I’ve reduced stress and increased my overall happiness. These techniques have not only made me a better student but also a more effective time manager. My hope is that these insights can provide you with the tools to conquer procrastination and achieve success in your studies as well!
Written by Yu Liang
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