With deadlines approaching, I found myself gravitating toward distractions that seemed harmless at first—video games, online shopping, and endless scrolling through TikTok. Each time I sat down to work on my application, a notification would pop up or a new episode would beckon me.
It wasn’t until the night before my first deadline that reality hit me hard. I had barely completed any essays or even filled out basic information on the application portal. In a panic, I pulled an all-nighter fueled by caffeine and anxiety.
The experience taught me the importance of creating a focused environment. By turning off notifications and setting specific times for work versus leisure, I could have avoided this last-minute chaos.
Distractions are everywhere in our digital age. By establishing boundaries with technology during critical periods, students can maintain focus and ensure they meet their deadlines without unnecessary stress.