What is procrastination?
Procrastination is more than just putting off tasks; it often signals deeper emotional challenges. Procrastination is not the same as laziness. While laziness suggests a reluctance to act, procrastination is a choice often driven by fear and uncertainty.
It can have various triggers, such as fear of failure or feeling overwhelmed by too many choices. Feelings of anxiety, self-doubt and a lack of confidence may hold us back from achieving our goals. This can create a difficult cycle, where fears of imperfection or judgment increase our stress. This can leave us feeling stuck and frustrated with ourselves.
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, you can break the cycle. Making the right changes will give you control over your time and wellbeing.
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. Whether it’s stress from work, distractions from social media, or dealing with ADHD, emotional factors often drive us to delay tasks.
Putting it off is a temporary relief that is often followed by guilt and stress. For many, procrastination is tied to feelings of anxiety, low self-esteem or fear of falling short of expectations.
95% of students admit 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 wellbeing.
What are the signs and effects of procrastination?
Procrastination might seem like a small bad habit – scrolling through social media instead of working – but, over time, it can have a big impact. It can affect both your personal and professional life. Delaying tasks can reduce the quality of your work and strain relationships.
Emotional Toll
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. Both colleagues and loved ones may 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 hypnotherapy help with procrastination?
Hypnotherapy for procrastination provides an effective way to overcome procrastination by guiding you into a deeply relaxed state. 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.
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. They can help you set achievable goals and break tasks into manageable steps.
Solution focused hypnotherapy can also increase your focus and productivity, helping you to feel more accomplished in all areas of life. If you’re ready to stop procrastinating, hypnotherapy could be the solution you need. It offers a gentle, results-focused approach to help you unlock your full potential.
Our Procrastination Specialists
Benn Baker-Pollard
Sittingbourne
Caroline Prout
Thrapston
Claire Noyelle
Maidstone
Dawn Ibbetson
Chelmsford
Emma Bancroft
Rainham, Kent
Emma Treby
Mid Devon
Gary Johannes
Peterborough
Jill Whitehouse
Newcastle upon Tyne
Keeley Smith
Southend-on-Sea
Kerry Seymour
Weston-super-Mare
Marina Love
Aylesbury Vale
Peter Ely
Islington
Samantha Morson
Canvey Island
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.
