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Want to Reduce Your Procrastination? Work on Your Optimism
Procrastination is a common hurdle many face and Japanese research suggests that cultivating optimism is a powerful tool to leap this hurdle.
Researchers Saya Kashiwakura and Kazuo Hiraki from the University of Tokyo have found that optimism boosts mental well-being, enhances time management, and reduces procrastination. Their study, published in Nature's Scientific Reports, reveals that an optimistic outlook can improve one's ability to initiate and sustain productive activities.
Optimism influences our cognitive processes in a way that fosters better time management. According to Kashiwakura and Hiraki, optimists tend to be more proactive, seeing potential challenges as opportunities rather than threats. This mindset shift helps reduce the fear of failure, which is often a significant contributor to procrastination. When you believe that good outcomes are possible, you're more likely to start tasks promptly and persist through difficulties.
“Our research showed that optimistic people — those who believe that stress does not increase as we move into the future — are less likely to have severe procrastination habits. This finding helped me adopt a more light-hearted perspective on the future, leading to a more direct view and reduced procrastination,” said Saya Kashiwakura.
He said, "We hope our findings will be particularly useful in the education sector. We believe that students will achieve better outcomes and experience greater well-being when they can comprehend their procrastination tendencies scientifically and actively work on improving them rather than blaming themselves."
How to be More Optimistic?
Additionally, Dadi Janki's advice on time management can be transformative. She suggested prioritising commitments that bring joy or advance important causes and recommends taking a few minutes each morning to review your obligations. This approach helps you stay focused on what truly matters and minimises wasted time, empowering you to take control of your productivity.
Fostering an optimistic mindset can significantly reduce procrastination, improve your time management skills, and enhance your overall productivity.
Optimism wards off procrastination
An optimistic outlook can break the vicious cycle of procrastination.
"Ultimately, the results of the study show that an optimistic outlook on the future can significantly reduce procrastination. By understanding and addressing our perspectives on stress and time, we can develop healthier habits and lead a more fulfilling life," wrote Rodielon Putol.
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