Final answer:
When scrolling on a phone instead of starting an intended task, it is likely a sign of procrastination. This behavior can stem from various factors and often leads to negative feelings like guilt and loss of control. Strategies to help combat procrastination include setting realistic priorities and reducing electronic distractions.
Step-by-step explanation:
When we find ourselves scrolling on our phones instead of starting a task we intended to do, this behavior most closely aligns with B) Procrastinating. Procrastination is the act of delaying or postponing tasks. It is a common experience where one chooses to do something less urgent at the expense of a more important task. This can be due to a variety of factors—ranging from feeling overwhelmed by the task at hand to simply not knowing how to get started. People often procrastinate by engaging in distractions, such as checking social media, which may be a convenient escape from the cognitive effort required by the pending task.
Several behaviors and outcomes correlate with procrastination. For instance, people might feel like they have lost control of their lives, feel guilty about neglecting other obligations, find it difficult to concentrate on tasks, and frequently feel tired due to the stress of unfinished work. On the other hand, a moderate amount of stress can actually improve efficiency and mental sharpness, though it's important to recognize when it tips into being counterproductive.
To combat procrastination, individuals can set realistic priorities for their days and create clear distinctions between work time and personal time. For example, only responding to email at specific times and turning off electronic communications during private time can help reduce distractions and strengthen focus. This is crucial because the use of devices, as indicated by Smith (2012), often makes it somewhat harder to give tasks our undivided attention or to focus without being distracted.