What is procrastination and how can we cope with tasks with flying colors
Procrastination is a neologism of the Romanian language, used in psychology to define what in the common language is defined as pregetare. Specifically, procrastination is the person’s choice to delay activities or tasks for “later.”
Each of us has resorted to procrastination at least once in our life, whether it was a professional task or a personal goal.
Causes of procrastination
Most of the reasons why we tend to postpone tasks or goals for later are not medical in nature. And although it is difficult for us to recognize it, often the timing of activities starts from the famous lazy person who, associated with the lack of discipline, certainly lead to dysfunctions at work or at home.
Other known causes of procrastination are:
- Increased fatigue caused by stress and / or lack of time.
Here we are dealing with those types of people who postpone activities due to mental overload or simply work in an overworked environment, in which they continuously receive extra tasks.
- Lack of prioritization of activities.
If you follow the patterns set out in the first point, then you should start by making a list of “priorities” and setting deadlines. Otherwise, there will always be chaos in your head, which will only lead to new and new failures.
- Lack of initiative at work.
Take into account that you either don’t like what you do or your salary is not motivating. The key is also yours, as is the phrase “the choice is yours”: either you are heading for a field that you are well versed in and where innovative ideas are flowing, or fill in resumes for a similar better paid job.
- False belief that we act better under pressure or waiting for the “inspiration” moment.
I said “false” well, because working under pressure will only bring together several factors that lead to procrastination. The moment of inspiration will never come from nowhere, knowing that you have other new tasks pending. Set a realistic deadline as soon as you receive a task and make sure you complete it successfully.
The effects of procrastination
Although you may not be aware of them yet, the effects are well known. Among the best known are:
- Stress and / or momentary overload;
- The feeling of constant guilt;
- Lack of productivity;
- Deterioration of health;
- Financial issues;
- Attracting the antipathy of others.
Methods to combat procrastination
Discipline is the best medicine. You can read more about the discipline HERE. The solution is to acknowledge that we are procrastinating and try to identify the best strategies to fight it.
Success!
