Perhaps it’s procrastination, not comparison, that is the thief of joy?
Procrastination is one of the most common problems people face. There are a number of studies out there about why we procrastinate. Many of them point to a tendency towards increasing pleasure and avoiding pain - the intrinsic motivations behind most of what we do.
According to some Psychologists, procrastination is a coping mechanism used to avoid the pain of an undesirable task. In their studies people reported feeling that there is something innately wrong about them, and that procrastination isn’t something they can control. Others reported that they procrastinated due to an underlying fear of failure or success. Procrastination showed up as missing deadlines, being chronically late, or creating undue stress in completing routine tasks.
So what, now what?
The good news is procrastination is not a life sentence! It’s not the only possibility.
Our work together in Personal Strategy Sessions can support you in addressing some of your procrastination tendencies. You don’t have to go at it alone.
The first step to resolution is acknowledgment. You must be able to identify the impact of your procrastination. There are prices you’re paying in choosing to procrastinate. Likewise, there are people in your life who are impacted by your actions (or inaction). Step two is forgiveness. Forgive yourself for procrastinating. Research suggests this to be one of the most effective strategies for reversing procrastination. Procrastinators can identify and resolve guilt and shame when they make room for self-compassion and confront the task in question. The third and final step is in choosing an alternative.
You have the power to choose!
INSIDE JOB Personal Strategy Sessions offer a choice point with built in accountability. I coach leaders to prioritize tasks and provide guidance in goal setting. Strategy Sessions are geared towards getting to the heart of the matter and addressing procrastination problems head on whenever they arise.
Consider all the ways procrastination is hindering your goal today. Is it robbing you of valuable time? Is it undermining your relationships and connection opportunities? It is having an adverse effect on your long-term health, having you perform your work in high-pressured scenarios. Is it robbing you of joy?
What will it take for you to make a different choice?
What’s possible on the other side?
