The sneaky names we have for procrastination

(2-minute read time)

On any given day, if you ask me if I am a procrastinator I probably would probably confidently say “No”.  Chances are you don’t think you are either.

But, procrastination is sneaky.  If we are not on the lookout, it will disguise itself as meaningful distraction.    

For example, I was in the process of writing copy to update my website and it just so happened all of these other “important” and “critical” things would surface when I was supposed to be writing.  I did not recognize I was avoiding it.  I avoided and avoided for so long until the avoidance itself became uncomfortable.  

Ever been there?

Finally, I had to admit the truth – I just did not want to do it.  I explored why. Upon questioning myself, I discovered the answer was “It’s not going to be good enough, I am not going to like it and no one else is either”.

Is it any wonder I was not chomping at the bit to do it???

Once I saw that thought was the culprit holding me back I made two decisions:

1. That’s a horrible reason for not finishing and I refuse to indulge in that any longer.  I will write even if I don’t feel like it. Period.
2. Even if it is true that the first version would be horrible, I would have to get it over with in order to get to the “good” version.  So there’s no upside in delaying a minute longer.

Avoidance and procrastination are never the solution.  Quitting will slow you down, but only every single time.      

Most often when we procrastinate or quit we do not call it that.  We justify and explain it away. We have “good” reasons for not going after our goals.  

The question then becomes – how do I know if I am justifying or procrastinating?  My answer to that is – you already know. In your heart of hearts, you know. If you can relate to the discomfort of not accomplishing the thing that will propel you towards your goal then you know you are probably procrastinating.    

I got on to my excuses.  It’s your turn.

Where are you uncomfortable because you are not taking action?  

You don’t have to wait for the discomfort of avoidance to become more uncomfortable than the discomfort of taking action.  

I can definitely help, just click here to schedule a free, 30-minute discovery session.  

*Photo credit: Matthew Henry