Understanding Structured Procrastination: How Avoidance Can Lead to Productivity

Summary

The author explores the concept of 'structured procrastination' - the practice of avoiding important tasks by doing other productive but less urgent work. Using personal examples like writing this essay instead of grading papers or filling out textbook orders, the author argues that procrastinators can be productive by channeling their avoidance behavior into meaningful tasks. The essay references Robert Benchley's observation that people can do any amount of work as long as it's not what they're supposed to be doing.