Assignment deadlines, deadlines for work, that to-do list you were supposed to have done yesterday, figuring out your life plan -- we all have those things that we try to put off, those things we try our hardest to pretend don’t exist. These tasks are different for everyone, but there are some common ways of procrastination.
I find it funny that when I am supposed to be doing something, my ADHD kicks in, and there are several things that I start to do instead. I know that I am not alone in this because I have had conversations about this subject on several occasions with different groups of people. Naturally, some of these are actually productive, except for the fact that they are being used as a distraction from actual responsibilities. But, productive, nonetheless!
1. Facebook
Ah, yes, that website full of pictures of people you no longer talk to, family that you hardly see, that on any normal day would just bore you, all of a sudden becomes the most interesting thing in the world! Between looking at all the new pictures of your friend’s new baby, or the constant stream of memes and delicious looking recipes. Oh, and we can’t forget about the tests to see who your top friends are, what your future baby will look like or what celebrities your personality is a mix of. Truly some fascinating information on here!
2. Instagram
Because the pictures on Facebook were just not enough. It's important to catch up on the latest celeb selfies and stunning photos that are taken in random places all around the world. And of course everyone's #transformationtuesday, #tbt, #fbf, #wcw, #mcm, #selfiesunday are always important to keep up with.
3. Pinterest
Let's be real here, it's true. Pinterest is one of the easiest ways to waste hours away on the internet. Arts and crafts, makeup and hair tutorials, recipes galore, home decor, organization. I mean seriously, the amount of stuff on here is endless. And I know it is typically considered a site for girls, but I know plenty of guys that have Pinterest accounts and use them on a semi regular basis.
4. Online shopping
So, you can not only waste your time, but also your money, all in one fell swoop. Either that or you spend your time adding things to wishlists that you will most likely never buy, but it's nice to think that you will sometimes.
5. YouTube
In your avid attempts to avoid the responsibilities of life, it never hurts to catch up on all of the YouTube accounts that you follow. Haven't watched videos from a channel in six months, no sweat! Time to watch them all. No reason to be left out in the dark about what is happening in the newest videos.
6. Netflix
"Just one more episode." "After this episode I will get back to work, I just needed to give my brain a break." Yeah, two of the biggest lies we tell ourselves. Because, you know, four episodes later and you haven't moved, haven't done even an ounce of work. Whoops!
7. Cleaning
See? Something productive. I'll be honest though, it is during the times of procrastination that my room usually gets clean. I do my best to justify it by saying that I can't get anything done when I'm surrounded by a mess.
8. Checking Facebook again but on your laptop instead of your phone
Well, you never know, something could have happened between the time you set your phone down 10 minutes ago and now. Nothing probably did, but it's always best to double check. Better safe than sorry!
9. Sleeping
The ultimate form of procrastination. Slipping off to sleep and usually waking up not knowing what day it is, and in a slight panic that you still have things that need to get done.
10. Snack break
After looking at all the recipes on Pinterest you are bound to be hungry. Is it even humanly possible to get work done on an empty stomach? I don't think so. Brain food is an essential part of the whole 'getting things done' process.
To all of my fellow procrastinators out there, keep on doing you! Things will get done eventually. Hopefully.
