The Real Reason We Procrastinate (It’s Not Just Laziness) | by Brandt Amelia | Sep, 2023

Okay, folks, let’s tackle a topic we’re all too familiar with: procrastination. You know, that thing we do when we should be working, but we end up scrolling through cat memes instead? Yeah, that. But here’s the kicker: it’s not just about being lazy; there’s more to it than meets the eye.

The Myth of Laziness

First things first, let’s debunk the myth that procrastinators are just lazy bums. Nope, not true. Procrastination isn’t about not wanting to do something; it’s about avoiding tasks for various reasons. So, let’s dive into the real reasons behind this all-too-common phenomenon.

1. Fear of Failure

One of the big culprits is the fear of failure. We put things off because we’re scared we won’t do them perfectly. It’s like saying, “I can’t do it flawlessly, so I won’t do it at all.” But, hey, nobody’s perfect, and making mistakes is how we learn. So, cut yourself some slack!

2. Lack of Motivation

Sometimes, it’s a sheer lack of motivation. If a task feels dull or uninspiring, we’d rather do anything else. It’s like trying to get excited about organizing your sock drawer when a Netflix marathon calls your name. Who can blame you?

3. Overwhelm

Ever feel like there’s a mountain of work looming over you? That’s when procrastination strikes because you don’t know where to start. It’s overwhelming, and your brain goes, “Let’s not deal with this right now,” as it reaches for the TV remote.

4. The Instant Gratification Trap

Our brains love instant gratification. Scrolling through social media, binge-watching shows, or munching on snacks feels so much better in the moment than working on a report due next week. It’s a battle between now and later, and guess who usually wins? Spoiler alert: it’s not later.

5. Perfectionism Paralysis

Perfectionism can be a double-edged sword. You want to do things perfectly, but that quest for perfection can paralyze you. Suddenly, even a simple email becomes a Herculean task. It’s like trying to thread a needle while wearing oven mitts.