Having a never-ending thesis is awful.

It's a constant drag on your entire life, sapping all the other beautiful moments like a leaking boat. You feel constantly guilty for not working on it. Yet, when you want to finish it, there is an unconscious force repelling you away, with multiple excuses, leaving you in a ditch of procrastination.

I have family members and friends that have once in their lifetimes gone through the exact situation so I know the struggle very well.

Thankfully, amidst the quicksand, there is hope:

1. Plan a regular work-time of 90-120 minutes per day

The key to getting things done is allocating sufficient time regularly for making progress. With only 90-120 minutes almost every day, you can get extremely far. I personally use this strategy to write 3-4 good pages every day on my book projects.

By making the commitment visible in your calendar (here is how) you no longer need to be tormented by it. You know when to work and more importantly when not to work. By alternating between activity and relaxation, your brain can start producing these connections vital for a coherent thesis.

2. Think formatting and the rest will take care of itself

Most students get stuck writing because they do not know what to say. The blank page is staring at them coldly.

Fortunately, you can circumvent it by using a separate document for rough outlines. Just jot down some key points you want to mention in this particular section. By writing them down, figuring out how to express these becomes WAY easier (this is how I write articles like these in 20 minutes or less)

Begin with the headline, then the main points and other facts, for a smooth domino effect. Use the outline document for documenting your next actions, making the next work session easier.

3. Show up and enjoy the process no matter what happens

Perfectionism is the master enemy behind a delayed thesis, with unreasonable expectations. However, if you are comfortable enough to show up, with enjoyable music in a cozy place, you can start to appreciate the time without the need to get things done quickly. By lowering your expectations, your creativity can flourish again, ultimately launching the positive snowball effect you deserve.

Expect that it will feel like an ice bath at first, a cloud of negative feelings. But if you are prepared, accept and even enjoy the situation, you can move forward like a courageous knight.

4. Do not be afraid to be vulnerable and seek help

Often, there is missing info and ambiguity behind a lagging thesis. By expressing your ultimate concerns and questions to your supervisor, examiner, and others involved, you do not need to vacillate over these. Once the interpersonal obstacles are diminished, you can feel calm about having what you need, and take advantage of the other tips here.

For more tips about solving procrastination, click here.