Procrastination

Procrastination

1. ANXIETY

   • Perceived threat to self esteem if you engage in task (and can't do it perfectly)
     • Failure to engage with activity provides short-term relief from anxiety
     • e.g. rejection if what you do isn't good enough
     • long-term enjoyment or fulfilment is lost for sake of immediate relief
     • Could also be other threats such as financial costs, loss of a friend, etc.
     • welcome distractions as a lifestyle as it temporarily allays fears of failure

2. LFT: (LOW FRUSTRATION TOLERANCE)

   • Perceived inability to endure frustration, boredom, hard work, discomfort, etc.
     • Unpleasant tasks are avoided or given up quickly
     • Core is:"I can't stand present pain for future gain"
     • Unfinished unpleasant tasks pile up more
       • Increased stress

3. REBELLION

   • Way of expressing your anger at someone by delaying tasks
     • resentment at the way you are being treated
     • Provides a temporary sense of control or 'being boss'
     • can backfire by causing more tension or further loss in the relationship

4. CONSEQUENCES

   • SELF SABOTAGE
     • self-development
     • personal maintenance
     • increased stress
       • alcohol abuse
       • substance abuse
     • debt, etc.
     • increased health issues
       • compromised immune system
       • increased colds and flu
       • gastrointestinal problems
       • insomnia
     • squander resources through bad planning and failure to act promptly
   • OTHER PEOPLE
     • life quality of family
     • others have to carry burden of responsibilities
       • causes resentment
   • DISHONESTY & LIES
     • e.g. "I'll feel more like it tomorrow"
     • e.g. "I work best under pressure"
     • loss of credibility
   • Tend to mix with friends who accept their excuses, and so reinforce their lifestyle

5. HEALTH ISSUES

   • There may genuinely be a complete emotional block concerning a particular issue
   • There may be physical reasons why a task is not attempted or delayed

6. SKILL DEFICITS

   • May fear appearance of being dumb if acknowledged
   • May be unaware of how to proceed with improvement

7. INDECISION

   • chronic inability to make decisions
     • absolves you of responsibility for outcome