How to Benefit From Procrastinating

Procrastinating is often frowned upon, since it can wreak havoc in certain situations. Losing your home or car because you did not pay the bill on time is definitely a problem. However, despite conventional wisdom that procrastination is always a liability, there are many ways that you can actually benefit from procrastinating. The trick is determining when waiting until the last minute yields the best results.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Decide when you need more information before making a major decision. For example, if you have been admitted to more than one college, procrastinating until you hear about all possible scholarships, financial aid and wait-list results can provide you with more options than if you accept the first offer. Likewise, if you get a job offer from one company, you may want to wait to hear back from other prospective employers before you accept. Having more than one offer on the table can help you compare options and provide leverage to negotiate better a better salary and benefits package.
2. Power up before you work or work out. If you are procrastinating because you have chores to do, remember that you are more likely to be more efficient when you are rested and energetic than when you are exhausted. Likewise, even if you "should" go to the gym tonight, procrastinating for one day does no harm and lets you have a longer, more intense workout tomorrow that will provider greater benefits.
3. Stop mistakes before they happen by procrastinating. Everyone has worked long hours to complete a report, spreadsheet, drawing, article or other project. This "proactive" behavior can actually backfire because, after a while, you start making mistakes without realizing it. Instead of finalizing your work when you think you are done, wait until your head clears and then review everything. Your work benefits from procrastinating until you have a fresh perspective.
4. Wait to hit the "Send" button on that angry email or instant message. It is better to count to 10 than to say something that you will regret, especially in professional settings or in emotionally charged conversations.
5. Buy theater tickets just before the show goes on to get a great discount. Likewise, shopping around for the best prices on any consumer item or waiting for a sale can save a lot of money. Holding off on impulse buys also benefits your wallet, limits debt and gives you the chance to decide just how badly you want the item.
6. Motivate through fear. When you have a deadline, adrenalin can produce some amazing results. You may benefit from untapped reservoirs of creativity and efficiency if you procrastinate for a while. Ask any college student.

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