How to Beat Procrastination in Dissertation Journey - by Dr. Lucy Wells-Johnson
- lucywellsconsultin
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Graduate school can feel like a never-ending list of deadlines, readings, and research tasks. Add a dissertation to the mix, and it’s easy to fall into the trap of procrastination. You promise yourself you’ll “start tomorrow,” but tomorrow keeps moving farther away. The good news? Procrastination isn’t a permanent habit it’s a pattern you can break with the right strategies.
At Doctorate Done Right, we help graduate students finish faster by combining accountability, structure, and proven productivity tools. Here’s how you can beat procrastination and keep your academic goals on track.
1. Break Big Tasks into Small, Doable Steps
The Problem: Large projects, like a dissertation chapter, can feel overwhelming, making it tempting to avoid them altogether.
The Solution: Break each project into smaller steps — for example, instead of “Write Chapter 2,” set a goal to “Summarize three journal articles.” Small wins build momentum and confidence.
2. Set Specific Work Times and Stick to Them
The Problem: Without a set schedule, work tends to get pushed aside for “later.”
The Solution: Treat your dissertation or coursework like an important meeting. Block specific times in your calendar and protect them from distractions.
3. Use the 25/5 Rule (Pomodoro Technique)
The Problem: Long study sessions can feel exhausting and increase the urge to procrastinate.
The Solution: Work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. These short sprints keep your mind fresh and reduce burnout.
4. Limit Distractions in Your Study Space
The Problem: Social media, email, and clutter pull your attention away.
The Solution: Use distraction-blocking apps, silence notifications, and keep only the materials you need on your desk.
5. Find an Accountability Partner or Coach
The Problem: Working in isolation makes it easier to slip into procrastination.
The Solution: Share your weekly goals with a trusted peer or coach who will check in on your progress. At Doctorate Done Right, we provide built-in accountability so you never lose momentum.
The Bottom Line
Procrastination doesn’t mean you’re lazy, it often means you’re overwhelmed, unclear, or lacking structure. By breaking tasks into smaller steps, scheduling your work, and staying accountable, you can regain control and make steady progress toward your degree.
If you’re ready for personalized guidance, a proven completion plan, and the accountability you need to beat procrastination for good, Doctorate Done Right is here to help.
Book Your Strategy Session and take your next step toward graduation.
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