Procrastination

Procrastination is an action of delaying or postponing something that must be done. We can be procrastinators for various reasons such as laziness, a lack of motivation and time management problems.

Most people do not encourage procrastination as they think procrastination can impede productivity and reduce quality of life. However, procrastination is not necessarily a bad thing because it can have both positive impacts and negative impacts on procrastinators depending on the type of procrastination.

For me, I am not a procrastinator, but I am really impressed by some procrastinators. I think some have strong self-confidence, and some have an ability to do their work quickly. However, too much procrastination may not be good for themselves and sometimes, it can impact on their surroundings.

Watch the video clip “Procrastination” and listen carefully about the types of procrastinators and how to overcome procrastination.

While the speaking in this video is quite fast, I would recommend that you don't be afraid of listening to the speaking with the normal speed. Please pay attention on your listening and listen to each part by part repeatedly. By doing this, your listening skill will be improved. This is what is important, not your final score.

However, if you do have difficulty listening to the video clip at normal speed, please click the setting button (if you are using computer) / click the three vertical dots on the right top of the video clip (if you are using mobile phone), click playback speed and choose 0.75 or lower as you wish. You can see it in the picture below.

Please watch and listen to the video clip repeatedly as you wish and complete the Multiple Choice questions below.

1. Procrastination is:

- related to inability

- caused by laziness

- doing something at the last minute

2. Active procrastination refers to:

- poor time management

- being distracted by unnecessary activities

- doing something important instead of the main task

3. The three types of procrastinators have been identified by

- scientists

- psychologists

- sociologists

4. Procrastinators who think about other people’s perceptions of them are

- Thrill seekers

- Avoiders

- Indecisive

5. Nowadays, the primary cause of procrastination is:

- the influence of family

- stress and anxiety

- fear of failure

6. The main way to change procrastinating behaviour is to:

- use time management skills

- break tasks down into small pieces

- relax and don’t worry

7. The book, “Procrastination Cure”

- recommends working for short periods

- discusses the cause of procrastination

- advises procrastinators to use apps

When you are ready, put your answers into the test sheet below.