Is procrastination stopping you from progressing?

Published: 2 April 2024

#CuriousMoments with Advita

Procrastination was one of the biggest hindrances in my life…

…and it’s a key issue that comes up frequently in my coaching sessions with my coachees.

As a former queen of procrastination, I totally understand the challenges and the frustrations that some of you might be facing. It can stop you progressing, speaking up, taking action etc.

From the work and research I’ve undertaken, there are roughly five main types 👇🏽

The perfectionist: you will procrastinate because you fear not completing a task perfectly. You may also hesitate to start or finish tasks due to high self-imposed standards.

💡Tip: Set realistic goals and deadlines for your tasks. Understand that “perfect” is often subjective and unattainable.

The dreamer: you will prefer to fantasise about what you want to achieve rather than focusing on the practical steps needed to accomplish your goals. You’ll often struggle with the details or the tedious aspects of tasks.

💡Tip: Work on making your goals more specific and actionable. Instead of just imagining the result, create a detailed plan with concrete steps to achieve your objectives.

The worrier: you will procrastinate because you fear change and what the future holds. You’ll often resist completing tasks because it might lead to a change in your life or self-identity.

💡Tip: Acknowledge and rationalise your fears by looking at past successes and realistic outcomes.

The crisis maker: you will thrive on the adrenaline rush of completing tasks at the last minute. You believe you work best under pressure but often compromise on quality and stress yourself unnecessarily.

💡Tip: Use timers or apps to break your work into focused sprints (Pomodoro Technique), allowing short breaks in between to maintain high energy levels without the panic of a deadline looming.

The defier: you will resist completing tasks as a form of rebellion against authority or to assert independence. You may also purposefully delay tasks as a statement against imposed schedules or expectations.

💡Tip: Emphasise the personal benefits of completing the task or how it aligns with your values and goals.

Do you resonate with any of these types? Let me know in the comments if you have any top tips.

Originally posted on LinkedIn, follow me for more curious moments.

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