Why We Procrastinate

Last updated: 2020-08-04

We procrastinate because…

1. We set our expectations too high

• Solution: Break it down to mangeable pieces. Take a deep breath. Think – what is the next physical action?

2. Perfectionism

• Solution: “Done is better than perfect”
  • Tell yourself that perfect does not actually exist
  • Consider the tradeoffs between making something “perfect” and using that time and energy for something else
  • Get started if you have 70% of the resources and 70% sure you will succeed

3. Lacking purpose

• Solution: Focus on WHY
  • “He who has a why can bear almost any how.” – Friedrich Nietzsche

4. Fear

• Solution: Be clear about what you are afraid of
  • We naturally fear what we can’t control, like the dark. So shine a light.
  • Imagine you’re a storybook hero. Have courage. Face your fears.
  • Instead of feeling afraid to fail, tell yourself that you are excited to learn

5. Bad self-management

• Solution: Schedule a block of time
  • At the end of the alloted time, reflect on what has been accomplished and what are the next steps

6. We only work well with external pressure

• Solution: Impose artificial deadlines
  • Ever notice how you’re 10x productive on the last day? Because at the eleventh hour, you comprehend the consequences of your actions so viscerally.
  • Better yet, figure out what you need to be internally motivated. Fighting yourself won’t work in the long run. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.

7. Distractions

• Solution: Proactively eliminate distractions
  • Put your phone on silent
  • Close that YouTube tab
  • etc.