Procrastination…Why Do We Do It?

We know we need to take care of “it”; but we put it off. Why? Procrastination is defined as putting off doing something out of habitual carelessness or laziness. Some psychologists say it’s a way to cope with anxiety associated with starting or completing a task. Aside from the obvious lack of productivity, other problems associated with procrastinating are extra stress and guilt in our lives. So, what do we do about it? The following tips may just help you be less of a procrastinator than you thought possible.

Own your procrastination. Admit you are a chronic procrastinator. The first step to changing any bad habit is to admit your guilt. Don’t be too hard on yourself; just say “I am a procrastinator; and I don’t want to be anymore”. You may be in denial; however, deep down you know if you consistently put off tasks. Acceptance is powerful. Once you admit to yourself you have a problem, you can begin to take steps to resolve it.

Take the blame. Believe it or not, we all make a choice to procrastinate. It’s easy to be defensive; and put blame where it doesn’t belong by always claiming someone else is at fault. Some of us even blame it on our parents by saying things like “My mother was a procrastinator, too”. Taking responsibility for your own actions; and realizing your procrastination lies squarely on your own doorstep is very important.

Identify the problem areas. Write down all the ways in which you procrastinate. Making a list helps us clearly identify where we need to focus. Do you put off paying bills, returning phone calls, cleaning the house? How about postponing dentist or doctor appointments? Do you Christmas shop on Christmas Eve? All the tasks you put off need to go on the list. When you have your list you will know where you need to improve.

Set clear cut goals. We need to have a well defined goal in mind. Saying “I will not procrastinate anymore” is not as powerful as “I will not procrastinate on cleaning the house today”. Saying that you will not procrastinate anymore sounds like a daunting task that can make you feel helpless. Making a plan for yourself by defining the task and the time frame gives you control; and also, makes you feel powerful.

Remember that Rome wasn’t built in a day. Procrastination like all bad habits can be eliminated from your life with dedication and time. If you falter, don’t beat yourself up; just start again. Each time you complete a task that you would have put off in the past you will feel good about yourself. That feeling will give you the power to eliminate procrastination from your life once and for all.

For more useful information read Procrastination: Ten Things To Know