Procrastination
Procrastination is the act of delaying or
postponing tasks, often to the point of experiencing negative consequences.
From missed deadlines and increased stress to decreased productivity and
damaged relationships, the impact of procrastination can be far-reaching. Procrastination
is not laziness.
Understanding the underlying causes, impacts,
and strategies to overcome procrastination is essential for individuals seeking
to improve their overall well-being.
Causes and Factors Contributing to
Procrastination
Procrastination is a complex interplay of
various factors that contribute to our tendency to delay important tasks.
Understanding these causes can help us combat procrastination and reclaim our happiness.
Below are some of the common factors that contribute to procrastination:
·
Psychological
Factors: Psychology Today quoted the following about psychological
factors: “Psychologists have identified various drivers of procrastination,
from low self-confidence to anxiety, a lack of structure, and, simply, an
inability to motivate oneself to complete unpleasant tasks. Research has also
shown that procrastination is closely linked to becoming fixated on negative
thoughts.”
·
Fear: Fear is an important factor that contributes
to procrastination. This can involve a fear of failure, a fear of making
mistakes, or even a fear of success
·
Self-confidence: When difficulties arise, people with weak
self-confidence easily develop doubts about their ability to accomplish the
task at hand, while those with strong beliefs are more likely to continue their
efforts.
·
Environmental
Triggers: Our environment plays a significant role in
influencing our procrastination habits. Distractions, lack of structure, and
overwhelming workload can all act as triggers that derail our focus and push us
towards procrastination.
·
Impact of
social media and Technological Distractions: Social media, watching TV and digital
distractions can be a big catalyst for procrastination. Endless scrolling, watching
videos, reading messages and comments, and before you know it, hours have
slipped by.
·
Other
factors: Other factors that contribute to
procrastination is poor time management skills, or simply avoiding unpleasant
or boring tasks. Additionally, perfectionism can also play a role in
procrastination, as individuals may put off tasks out of a fear of not meeting
their own impossibly high standards.
Overcoming Procrastination
There are various strategies to overcome procrastinations.
The willingness to seek the help of a coach or counsellor for overcoming psychological
issues must always be considered.
·
Changing
our behaviours and habits is key to overcoming procrastination.
·
Avoiding
negative emotions worsens the situation and tends to lead to much worse
outcomes in the long run, including more stress and regret.
·
Identifying
and processing psychological factors and negative emotions with the help of a professional
can be very effective.
Francois Prinsloo is an accredited Life Coach and MLNP Facilitator
For any
help and more information, you are welcome to e-mail me at:
coachingforafrica1@gmail.com
Disclaimer: This
article is not intended to take the place of medical advice from your personal
physician.
