Procrastination

by Flinkliv · Updated November. 11, 2023

  1. What is procrastination?
  2. Why do you need to fight procrastination?
  3. Examples of procrastination


What is procrastination?

Procrastination is delaying or postponing tasks or activities, often despite knowing that doing so may have negative consequences.

Conversation between A and B about procrastination. B: how is the report going? A: not even started B: This is procrastination B: Procrastination is all about emotions. Procrastinators try to avoid negative emotions, or frustration, or fear … A: In my case .. All three together

Procrastination is characterized by putting off what needs to be done in favor of other, less important, or less urgent activities. Various factors, such as fear of failure, lack of motivation, overwhelming feelings, or a desire for immediate pleasure or gratification, can drive this behavior. Procrastination can lead to increased stress and decreased productivity and can be a difficult habit to break. However, it is possible to overcome and manage procrastination with the right strategies and support.

Why do you need to fight procrastination?

Fighting procrastination is important for achieving our goals, reaching our full potential, and leading a more fulfilling and productive life. Procrastination can seriously affect our lives, from decreased productivity and missed opportunities to increased stress and reduced confidence. By putting things off until later, we create unnecessary stress and pressure for ourselves, often rushing to complete tasks at the last minute, leading to subpar results.


Examples of procrastination

Procrastination vs laziness

Procrastination and laziness are often used interchangeably, but they are actually two different behaviors. Procrastination is the habit of delaying tasks or putting them off until later, often due to feelings of overwhelm or fear of failure. Laziness, on the other hand, is a lack of motivation or effort to do anything at all, not just specific tasks. While both can lead to decreased productivity, the root causes and solutions are different. To overcome procrastination, it may involve setting goals, breaking tasks into smaller steps, or seeking support from others. For laziness, it may require finding inspiration and setting meaningful objectives, or finding ways to make tasks more enjoyable.

Conversation between A and B about procrastination. A: I procrastinate cuz I am lazy. B: Procrastination is not laziness.

Fight procrastination

Sometimes, a "Just Start" is a simple way to help overcome procrastination

Conversation between A and B about to just start small to fight procrastination. A: I am still procrastinating B: Just start small

Fight anxiety

When you're stuck in one place, anxiety turns into a heavyweight champion, knocking you out with worries and overthinking. So, the key is to break free from the motionless trap. Don't let your mind become a playground for anxiety. Instead, kick into action, think less, and do more.

Conversation between A and B about to just start small to fight anxiety. A:This task gives me anxiety, and I haven't even started. B: Anxiety is 10x worse when you do nothing, so think less & do more.

Parkinson's Law

We tend to focus on the available time to finish the task rather than what we truly need. That leads to inefficiency and wasted time. Be sure to set the right deadlines to complete a task.

Conversation between A and B about to set the right deadlineas to complete a task A: I like chill deadlines. B: Set the right deadlines, or tasks'll stretch.