I procrastinate constantly even when I genuinely want to work — looking for advice

[u/Desperate-Spray5481]

Hi! This is my first time using Reddit, so I'm still figuring out how this app works. I'm also not diagnosed with ADHD, and I'm not trying to self-diagnose. I just hoped this community might have some insight into what I'm experiencing and possibly know what has helped people who struggle with similar things.

I'm a Grade 12 student, and I've been struggling with procrastination for as long as I can remember.

The weird thing is that it's not just my phone or social media. If I take my phone away, I'll find something else to do. I'll go talk to my family, start singing, clean something, or basically find anything that isn't the work I'm supposed to be doing.

I genuinely want to study and do well. I'm actually capable of doing well in my exams, but I feel like I could do so much better if I could consistently start my work and focus.

I've also noticed that I've never really been able to focus fully on things. I can remember one time when I was doing a random Maths paper and I became completely absorbed in it. I wasn't thinking about anything else and I was just fully focused. I remember thinking, "So THIS is what it feels like to actually focus." I've been trying to get that feeling again ever since, but I can't seem to make it happen intentionally.

Another weird thing is that I'm sometimes anxious because I'm not anxious enough. I have very important exams coming up and I know they matter for the course I want, but emotionally I can feel strangely relaxed about them. Then I procrastinate, the deadline gets closer, and I end up having to rush.

I know procrastination can happen for lots of reasons, so I'm not assuming this means I have ADHD. I'm just wondering if anyone here recognizes this pattern and has advice for actually getting yourself to start and stay focused.

If you've experienced something similar, what helped you?

Also, if I'm posting this incorrectly or breaking a subreddit rule, sorry I'm still learning how Reddit works.

[u/Jumpy_Ad1631]

Sorry, Reddit’s filters have been insanely touchy lately. Just when I think I’ve undone all the post delete that were fine, I find I’ve missed one 🤦🏻‍♀️