What is procrastination?
Procrastination is more than just delaying tasks; it often signals deeper emotional challenges. Many of us—around 20-25% globally—struggle with procrastination, where feelings of anxiety, self-doubt, and a lack of confidence hold us back. This can create a difficult cycle, where fears of imperfection or judgment increase our stress and leave us feeling stuck.
Why Do We Procrastinate?
Procrastination can stem from various emotional triggers, such as fear of failure or feeling overwhelmed by too many choices. The ancient Greeks called this conflict “Akrasia,” referring to the internal struggle we experience when acting against our better judgment. It’s important to note that procrastination is distinct from laziness. While laziness suggests a reluctance to act, procrastination is an active choice, often driven by fear and uncertainty.
Overcoming Procrastination
Breaking free from procrastination begins by addressing the emotional barriers that fuel it. Boosting your confidence and reducing anxiety are essential steps. With a mindful approach, small actions, and a bit of self-compassion, it’s possible to break the cycle and regain control over your time and well-being.
70% of university students identify as procrastinators, with 50% doing so consistently and problematically
Men are slightly more prone to procrastination than women
Leaving things to the last-minute costs people £449 a year or £29,200 over a lifetime
Procrastination can lead to higher levels of stress, with up to 94% of people reporting that procrastination negatively impacts their happiness
What causes people to procrastinate?
Procrastination often starts with a nagging worry about beginning a task, leading to temporary relief, but followed by guilt and stress. For many, these delays are tied to feelings of anxiety, low self-esteem, or fear of falling short of expectations.
Emotional Triggers
Procrastination isn’t just a matter of feeling overwhelmed or fearing failure; it’s closely linked to our emotions. Whether it’s stress from work, distractions from social media, or dealing with ADHD, emotional factors often drive us to delay tasks. Remember, procrastination isn’t about laziness—it’s about managing mental and emotional well-being.
Procrastination in Students
Among students, procrastination is particularly common, with 95% admitting to putting off tasks. Academic pressures, fear of not achieving desired grades, and digital distractions contribute to increased stress and can impact health. Addressing the emotional triggers behind procrastination can help students regain control of their studies and mental well-being.
What are the signs and effects of procrastination?
Procrastination might seem like a minor habit—scrolling through social media instead of working—but over time, it can erode both personal and professional aspects of life. Delaying tasks can reduce the quality of your work and strain relationships.
Emotional Toll
Procrastination is deeply tied to our emotions. Delaying tasks often leads to stress, anxiety, and guilt, creating a cycle of discomfort and self-doubt. This can disrupt your peace of mind and even impact your sleep, potentially leading to more severe health problems over time.
Impact on Work and Relationships
At work, procrastination can harm your reputation, making you appear unreliable. This may limit career opportunities and cause tension at home, as loved ones feel neglected when tasks and decisions are repeatedly postponed.
How can it be overcome?
To tackle procrastination, start by recognising when and why you avoid tasks. Keeping a journal can help identify these patterns. Try to connect each task to a personal value or goal, which can make even mundane chores feel more meaningful.
Break It Down
Large tasks often feel more manageable when divided into smaller, actionable steps. Tackle the most challenging tasks during your peak hours of focus and save easier ones for when your energy dips.
Set Achievable Goals
Aim for consistent progress rather than perfection. Setting realistic goals keeps your motivation high and allows you to celebrate even small wins. Remember to treat yourself with kindness, offering encouragement rather than criticism.
Lean on Support
Reach out to friends or family for encouragement and accountability. It’s okay to take small steps and forgive past procrastination. The goal is progress, not perfection.
How can hypnothera py help?
Hypnotherapy provides an effective way to overcome procrastination by guiding you into a deeply relaxed state. Here, your hypnotherapist helps you explore what motivates you and what’s been holding you back, without dwelling on past mistakes. The focus is on creating positive changes and moving towards your goals.
Visualisation and Positive Change
During hypnotherapy, visualisation and positive affirmations allow you to see yourself confidently overcoming procrastination. These sessions equip you with practical strategies tailored to your needs, such as setting achievable goals and breaking tasks into manageable steps.
Broader Benefits
Solution Focused Hypnotherapy goes beyond tackling procrastination; it can also increase your focus and productivity, helping you to feel more accomplished in all areas of life.
Take the First Step
If you’re ready to stop procrastinating, hypnotherapy could be the solution you need. It offers a gentle, results-focused approach to helping you unlock your full potential and create a more proactive future.
Our Procrastination Specialists
Benn Baker-Pollard
Sittingbourne
Carmen Harrington
Market Harborough
Caroline Prout
Thrapston
Chris Johannes
Spalding
Claire Noyelle
Maidstone East
Dawn Ibbetson
Chelmsford
Gary Johannes
Peterborough
Jill Whitehouse
Newcastle upon Tyne
Keeley Smith
Southend-on-Sea
Kerry Seymour
Weston-super-Mare
Peter Ely
Islington
Why Choose Inspired To Change
Our solution focused hypnotherapists empower you to better understand your brain, helping to guide you towards solutions and achieve the outcomes you want. We have a team of fully trained hypnotherapists, giving you the choice of who to work with and how you want to work with them. Solution focused hypnotherapy is just as effective in-person or online in the comfort of your own home, so you can find the ideal therapist to help you reach your goals.
Every one of our hypnotherapists is recognised by governing bodies like the National Council for Hypnotherapy, the UK’s leading not-for-profit hypnotherapy professional association. They have all trained with Clifton Practice Hypnotherapy Training, one of the leading hypnotherapy schools in the UK.
