It’s inevitable. There’s something we know we’re supposed to do. Something that will help us, make us better, move the needle forward. What do we do?
Nothing. Stall. Ignore it. Procrastinate.
But why? It doesn’t make sense…especially when it’s always something that will make us or our situation better.
We make a commitment to exercise. We don’t.
We need to apply for a scholarship. We miss the opportunity.
We decide to complete and submit a business proposal. We miss the deadline.
According to a recent New York Times article: “Procrastination isn’t a unique character flaw or a mysterious curse on your ability to manage time, but a way of coping with challenging emotions and negative moods induced by certain tasks — boredom, anxiety, insecurity, frustration, resentment, self-doubt and beyond.”
Another article states that: “Procrastination is often a symptom of perfectionism. Because perfectionists fear being unable to complete a task perfectly, they put it off as long as possible. This stems from the fear that not meeting the goal means that there is something bad, wrong or unworthy inside of them. Further, perfectionists fear that failure will invoke criticism or ridicule either from internal voices or external authorities and peers. The higher the fear of failure and ridicule, the more perfectionists procrastinate.”
Know that procrastination can be painful and have dire consequences. Think about your situation. Are you bored, anxious, insecure, frustrated, resentful, fearful, doubtful or a perfectionist?
The best way to beat procrastination is to move forward in spite of the feelings. Feel it…but still do it. You will have that perceived pressure off you because that which you were anxious about, afraid of, perfecting over (is that a word?) is done. Complete.
Just do your dream!
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