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Procrastination: What is it really... Like, really?
I used to be the procrastination queen. I couldn’t figure it out. I thought I was lazy and undisciplined, but one day in therapy, we were able to unpack why I love to procrastinate so much.
What I realized is that procrastination was just a byproduct of my fears.
Well then the question was, what was I afraid of?
I was afraid of failure. I was afraid of rejection. I haven’t even begun to get into imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome - the persistent inability to believe that one's success is deserved or has been legitimately achieved as a result of one's own efforts or skills.
All of these things are really scary for me. So scary that I was frozen by my fear, which disguised itself as procrastination.
How do I address these fears? I asked myself, what is the worst-case scenario if all these things I fear come to pass? Would I be able to handle the failure, rejection, and so on? The answer for me is yes. Actually, if that’s the worst that can happen, I’ll be okay. I’d be a bit embarrassed. I’d feel bad for a week or two, but ultimately, I’d be okay.
I began to recognize when I was procrastinating at a quicker pace, and I was able to escape the grips of my procrastination by asking myself one question.
“Why am I procrastinating?” and it’s not enough to ask the question; I had to answer. Once I confronted procrastination head-on, I was able to move forward with my goals and start to achieve the things I’ve dreamed of.
Photography by: D.G. Noble
My Advice to You When Facing Procrastination
Ask yourself, "Why am I procrastinating?"
Answer your own question.
After answering, ask yourself, "Is the solution something you can complete today or work towards today?"
If yes, do it now.
"Don't put off until tomorrow what can be done today." - Ben Franklin
Love ya,
IMVNI (IMANI means FAITH)
P.S. Pass this message along to a friend or loved one in need.