Procrastination is, hands down, our favorite form of self-sabotage.
-Alyce P. Cornyn-Selby
Most of us have procrastinated at one time or another but for some of us, it can be a lifelong habit. Things
we want to do, should do, or must do weigh on our psyche, adding needless stress to our lives. Do you find yourself putting things off until tomorrow more often than not? If so, you may recognize these reasons for procrastination. I have also included some tips on how to break the habit.
I don't like to do it.
The task might be something you don't enjoy (cleaning out the refrigerator, organizing your files, going to the doctor). If this is your reasoning you may try the following:
- Match the unpleasant task with an instant reward upon its completion.
- Break the task into parts and reward yourself after each part is done.
- Challenge a friend to do something she doesn't want to and hold each other accountable.
I won't do it right.
Perfectionism keeps us from even trying. If we believe something has to be perfect it feels daunting and may bring up past emotions of not "getting it right."
- Get the task over by telling yourself that "good enough" is better than nothing.
- Remind yourself that you will have a chance to tweak the results after completion.
- Try to remember the last time you witnessed perfection. Probably never.
I'm not good enough.
Many of us were given messages when we were younger that we don't measure up. The messages were usually from our well-meaning parents who were using the wrong tactic to get us to try harder.
- Think back to see how many of those messages you have incorporated into your sense of self.
- Realize that even extremely talented people need to practice to get things right. By putting off doing something, you are not giving yourself the chance to learn.
- If you really believe that you don't have the talent to complete a task, ask a friend to help you or hire a professional who has the expertise you need.
Self care is the opposite of self-sabotage. Take care of yourself by doing something you have been putting off.
