When I heard that Oxford physicists are making strides towards teleportation, my first thought was, “Will I ever get teleported from my couch to bed?”
I’m a notorious bedtime procrastinator. No matter how tired I am, once I’m lying on the couch, getting up to go to bed feels unnecessary. With a cozy blanket and my phone in hand, why would I choose sleep over comfort?
It turns out this is a common issue. Dr. Jacqueline Nesi highlights how many people struggle with procrastinating their bedtime. She explains this behavior is a real topic that researchers study, partly because it can lead to poor sleep and even mood problems.
Three main reasons fuel this bedtime delay, according to Nesi. First, we often don’t think about how our current choices affect our future selves. Second, we might doubt our willpower, especially after a tough day. Lastly, negative thoughts about being a procrastinator can hold us back from making a change.
Personally, I struggle with what Nesi calls “bedtime routine aversion.” I dread the whole process—brushing my teeth, washing my face, and getting undressed. It feels overwhelming, and I resist it as much as I can.
There are ways to tackle this procrastination. Cognitive-behavioral strategies, for example, encourage you to identify what’s causing you to delay bedtime and to change your thought patterns. Simple changes in your environment, like putting your phone away, can help too. Some people even suggest setting a loud alarm in your room to remind you it’s time to sleep, which is something I plan to try. But, knowing me, it probably won’t be tonight!
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