Where Has the Time Gone?
Where Has the Time Gone? Why Students Procrastinate and How They Can Take Control
College students often feel stretched thin, overwhelmed, or unsure how the days slip by so quickly. For many, the challenge isn’t the material itself; rather, it’s managing the freedom of college. Without bells, reminders, and teachers or parents prompting them daily, students suddenly become responsible for structuring every hour themselves. As a result, time management becomes one of the most common and influential challenges students face.
The Research Is Clear: Students Struggle With Time Management More Than Ever
Studies consistently show that today’s college students feel unprepared to manage their time effectively. In the Spring 2025 National College Health Assessment published by the ACHA, more than 66 percent of students reported overwhelming stress tied to academic workload, and time management and procrastination were cited as top contributors. From the failures of secondary education in the post-COVID era to the addictive nature of social media and video games, many of today’s college students become chronic procrastinators whose habits can put them at risk for academic decline or even dropping out.
Why Time Management Is So Hard in College
Unlike high school, where structure comes built in, college requires students to build their own routines. Many arrive on campus without the executive function skills needed to plan ahead, break tasks into manageable parts, estimate how long work takes, or balance academics with social life, rest, and responsibilities. Without systems, students fall into a cycle of rushing through assignments, losing sleep, eating poorly, or producing lower-quality work. Over time, this erodes confidence and increases anxiety.
The Ripple Effects of Poor Time Management
When students lack time-management strategies, the consequences spill into every part of their lives. They may experience rising stress, inconsistent grades, chronic procrastination, and disorganized routines. Without intervention, this cycle can impact not just academics but also physical health, sleep, mood, and motivation.
How Parents Can Help Students Build Better Habits
Parents can support their students by encouraging the development of simple, consistent routines. Ask questions that promote reflection rather than criticism, such as:
“What’s your plan for the week?”
“How are you dividing up your larger assignments?”
“Which study strategies work best for you right now?”
Small changes, such as using a planner, committing to weekly planning, breaking tasks into steps, or reviewing notes regularly, can have a significant impact. Most importantly, remind your student that time management is a totally learnable skill, not a personality trait.
When Students Need More Than Tips
Some students need external structure and accountability to make meaningful, lasting changes. That’s where professional coaching can be incredibly effective. College Success Plan provides the personalized support, tools, and structure students need to stay organized, reduce procrastination, and take control of their academic life.
If you want your student to start the new semester with stronger habits, steadier routines, and renewed confidence, schedule a free consultation with us to talk about your student’s unique needs. With our holistic approac,h we help students get ahead of the stress so they can achieve balance and success in college, and in life.
