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Procrastination
For the last few years I have had a habit of procrastination. Waiting till the last minute to get things done. I am doing well in my career. I own my business. I know my potential and I can do much greater things in life. But I am extremely lazy and put off things till the last minute possible. However hard i try I am unable to change this habit. I am getting scared of myself.
Answers (13)
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Hi
Next Steps
1. Five minute plan: Sit down and work on
something for just five minutes. At the end of
that time, move onto something else, or set
yourself another five minutes on the original task.
Chances are you’ll already be involved enough
to keep going.
2. Positives and negatives: Make a list of all the
good things that will happen when you stop
procrastinating and the not so good things that
will happen if you continue to procrastinate.
Think about these each time you find
yourself procrastinating.
3. Reward yourself. Set up a system where you
use pleasurable activities (even small ones) as
a means of rewarding yourself when you’ve
done the work you planned to do, rather than
using those pleasurable activities as a way of
avoiding that work. For example, make sitting
down and watching your favourite TV show
a reward for doing an hour of work on that
assignment, rather than the thing that delays
starting the work.
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Hi, Consult a psychologist
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Procrastination can be a tough habit to break, especially when you recognize your potential and want to achieve more in life. It's important to understand that this habit often stems from deeper issues like fear of failure, perfectionism, or even feeling overwhelmed by tasks. Start by breaking your tasks into smaller, manageable steps and setting specific deadlines for each part to keep yourself accountable. Establishing a routine and using tools like to-do lists or time-blocking can also help you stay organized and focused. Additionally, reflecting on the underlying reasons for your procrastinationâsuch as fear or perfectionismâcan provide valuable insights for change. Consider seeking support from mentors or coaches who can guide you through this process. Remember, change takes time, and forgiving yourself for past mistakes is crucial to moving forward. By tackling one small change at a time, you can gradually build momentum and create a more productive mindset.
Next Steps
consult with a Psychologist
Health Tips
seek help
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Hi,
You are aware of your potential and the impact procrastination is having, which is a powerful step forward. .
Self awareness is an essential first step .
Sometimes, procrastination can stem from deeper anxieties or perfectionism, so exploring identifying the underlying reason and what might be holding you back can help.
To start shifting this habit, try breaking tasks into small, manageable steps and commit to just five minutes at a time—often, beginning is the hardest part, and small actions build momentum.
Setting a routine . Be kind to yourself; overcoming long-standing habits takes time, and each small step forward is a positive one toward realizing your full potential.
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Setting personal deadlines before the actual due dates can create a sense of urgency, helping to combat the habit of waiting until the last minute.If the habit is deeply ingrained, working with a counselor or coach could help provide tailored strategies and accountability.
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connect
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consult
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Ms. Hema Sampath
Counselling Psychologist
18 yrs exp
Bangalore
Consult with a psychological Counselor for a therapy..
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Ms. Rizwana Parvin T M
Counselling Psychologist
7 yrs exp
Coimbatore
Create a daily routine and try sticking . Make the goals easy and simple for 5 to 10 minutes. So it is workable. Generally procrastination happens when the task ahead is complex, new, challenging or boring. So make it interesting, think about how you will feel after achieving it. Make it simple and easy too and reward yourself. Make small changes to start off with.
Next Steps
Consult me, I can help you deal with your procrastination and overcome it gradually.
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Mr. Sandeep Kumar
Psychologist
12 yrs exp
Chandigarh
Hi dear concerned,
It’s great that you're aware of your potential, and with support, overcoming procrastination is possible. A therapist or coach can help you explore underlying causes and build new habits, so you can fully unlock your productivity and reach your goals.
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Ms. Shivangi Agrawal
Psychotherapist
7 yrs exp
Gurgaon
Hello,
It’s easy to feel that procrastination is just “laziness,” but it often has deeper roots like stress, fear of failure, or feeling overwhelmed. Starting with small, simple steps can make tasks feel less daunting and easier to tackle. Remember, taking even one small step forward is progress, and you deserve patience and kindness on the journey.
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Dr. Sangeeta Gupta (PhD)
Psychologist
6 yrs exp
Delhi
Hi dear,
Itâs great that youâre aware of how procrastination has been affecting you, even as you succeed in your career. Procrastination often isnât just lazinessâit can come from feeling overwhelmed or avoiding tasks that seem too big or stressful.
One helpful approach can be setting specific times for tasks that matter to you, which will help you tackle things step-by-step rather than waiting until the last minute.
Doing small activities that bring you a sense of accomplishment can also build confidence and motivation over time.
Procrastination can be managed. Understanding why procrastination happens can be the first step toward change. Build a routine that helps you reach your full potential.
Next Steps
Activity scheduling
Health Tips
Self analysis for the cause and seeking professional help
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Ms. Neha Sachdev
Psychologist
11 yrs exp
Delhi
hi
i am glad that you noticed procrastination as a habit. you do realize that u have always been successful in last moment stuff and hence have got casual. it is a typical mindset. it is an automatic response that ur mind gives to your body- saying that u have alot of time and can do it later. your body reacts to what your mind says.
Next Steps
train your mind to take smaller tasks everyday. say to yourself that working on a target everyday is healthier than to be stressed at the last moment. this will also make things easy and you can perform much better in your business, the quality of the work will be increased.
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Dr. Minal Abhilashi (PhD)
Counselling Psychologist
5 yrs exp
Delhi
Procrastination can often feel like a persistent challenge. It is deeply intertwined with emotional and psychological factors. If you’re struggling with procrastination, it might be helpful to consider both practical strategies for managing the behavior and the possibility of seeking professional support through counseling.
Some ways to tackle procrastination:
1. Identify the Root Causes: Procrastination often goes beyond mere laziness or poor time management. It can stem from a variety of factors such as fear of failure, perfectionism, low self-esteem, anxiety, or a lack of motivation. Reflecting on what might be driving your procrastination can help you approach it more effectively.
2. Emotional Avoidance: Sometimes procrastination is a coping mechanism to avoid feelings of stress, uncertainty, or inadequacy. Recognizing that avoiding tasks may temporarily soothe anxiety but will only increase stress in the long run can help you reframe your approach.
3. Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: Large tasks can feel overwhelming, and procrastination often arises from this sense of being “stuck.” Break tasks down into smaller, more manageable steps, and focus on completing just one small part at a time.
3. Set Clear and Achievable Goals: Setting specific, realistic, and time-bound goals helps create structure and purpose. Instead of vague goals like “work on project,” aim for clear objectives like “write the introduction by 2 PM.”
4. Create a Routine: Establish a daily routine that includes set times for work and breaks. Having a structured schedule can reduce the likelihood of procrastination by creating consistent habits.
5. Use Time-Blocking: Allocate specific blocks of time for focused work. Techniques like the Pomodoro Method (working for 25 minutes, then taking a 5-minute break) can help you stay on track.
6. Limit Distractions: Identify and eliminate common distractions (social media, phone, etc.) that contribute to procrastination. You can use apps to block distracting websites or designate a quiet workspace to help you focus.
7. Start Small, Build Momentum: The hardest part is often starting. Commit to working for just five or ten minutes. Once you’ve started, it’s easier to keep going.
Next Steps
If procrastination is significantly affecting your life, work, or well-being, counseling can offer valuable insights and support. Please feel free to contact and schedule an appointment.
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.