Now that the new semester is upon us all, we're back into the swing of homework and responsibilities again.

And like anything that has to be done, with this comes the temptation to slack off or wait until the last minute to start it. It's difficult to find the motivation to do the seemingly menial "beginning of the year" assignments, and it's so easy to just procrastinate and put it all off.

Don't get me wrong, I don't recommend that this is a good decision to make, but I also understand that sometimes (a lot of the time) it's inevitable and understandable.

So if you're going to slack off eventually anyways, here are some ways to do it that are the most practical and productive. Fighting the urge to do something meaningless like watch Netflix or eat in boredom can be a challenge, but you can try one of these activities instead to fill your "free time":

1. Cleaning Your Room

If you're not interested in doing your assignments, just take a look around your room. Chances are there are clothes scattered around the floor, papers left on the desk, or an overflowing trash can. Rather than just letting the room continue to get out of control as you procrastinate, try tidying it up a little.

2. Planning Your Week

Like cleaning your room, this is another thing that really should be done but is too easily put off. If you make sure to plan your week ahead of time, you'll hopefully be able to get your future assignments done without letting the deadlines creep up on you.

3. Reading a Book

Don't just read any book, but a recreational reading book that isn't for school or work. This is one of the best ways to keep you in the "work mode" while also giving you a little productive relief. It'll keep your brain working and entertain you at the same time until you're ready to start that essay.

4. Calling Home

Your parents probably miss you as much as you secretly miss them. Calling home can not only make their night, but keep you updated on all the important things you're missing while being away at school.

Ironically, all of these productive ways to spend your time are also good motivators to get the work done afterwards. A clean space and a well-planned week will decrease your stress level and make it easier to concentrate on the work at hand. Reading a book can get your mind either relaxed enough to start that tough assignment or focused enough to concentrate on it. Calling home can be a good motivator for thinking about your future and put you in a better mood.

All in all, if you're going to shirk your responsibilities, try and be creative and productive about it. In the end, maybe you'll be glad you procrastinated.