Table of Contents

How to Stop Procrastinating and Start Studying Productively

Struggling to study even when exams are near? Here's how to beat procrastination and become more productive.

Visualize Your Future Self

Picture Your Future Gratitude

Imagine yourself three months from now. What can you start today that your future self will thank you for? Visualizing small wins creates a sense of responsibility and sparks motivation.

Ask: What Would My Role Model Do?

When stuck, think: “What would Ali Abdaal or Cristiano Ronaldo do in this situation?” Mimicking your role model can activate your brain’s creative drive and initiate progress.

Use the Power of Dopamine

Break Down Big Tasks

Instead of facing 100 problems at once, divide them into chunks of 10. Each completion gives a dopamine hit, creating a loop that keeps you motivated and moving forward.

Create a Reward Cycle

This system—action → dopamine → craving → action—makes study feel more rewarding. Frequent wins feed your brain’s craving for progress.

Double Your Time Estimate

Overcome Overconfidence

Think that essay will take 3 hours? Assume 6. Overestimating helps prevent last-minute panic and builds a realistic urgency to get started earlier.

Time Block Your Schedule

Use tools like Google Calendar to visually block out when you'll study. Time-blocking reduces decision fatigue and makes your study routine feel more manageable.

Done Is Better Than Perfect

Perfectionism Causes Delay

Waiting for the “right time” or “perfect conditions” is a trap. Instead, just start. The Parkinson’s Law reminds us that tasks expand to fill the time we allow.

Lower the Activation Barrier

The earlier you start, the easier it feels. Delaying increases the psychological weight. Starting now reduces resistance and builds momentum.

Train Yourself to Feel Boredom

Cut Short-Term Dopamine Triggers

Stop relying on social media or constant notifications. Embrace boredom—it’s a natural state where creative insights and motivation often appear.

Embrace Unplugged Activities

• Cook without your phone
• Take a walk without headphones
• Sit quietly with no distractions
• Go to the restroom without scrolling

These small practices teach your brain to breathe, reset, and generate focus naturally.

"The difference between those who succeed and those who don't is not whether they procrastinate—but how well they manage it."

Final Thoughts

Procrastination is a human experience, not a personal flaw. With the right tools—visualization, dopamine hacks, mindset shifts, and boredom training—you can reclaim control and show up as your best self.

Which tip are you excited to try today? Share it in the comments, and don’t forget to follow for more life-changing productivity insights.

Label:

Self Development

References:

• Video: Cara Berhenti Menunda-nunda Belajar (Procrastination)
• Creator: Zahid Ibrahim
• Link: Watch the original video here