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Writer's pictureVitty Elizabeth

Procrastination and Trauma: A hidden connection

Procrastination has become a buzzword lately. Many people use it as an excuse for not completing tasks, saying they were "procrastinating." While for some, it’s a trendy term to use, for others, it's a genuine struggle to start tasks.

I admit, I fall into both categories. But I realized that procrastination was affecting many areas of my life, and it wasn't just a fancy term—it was a real issue that needed addressing.

In my quest to understand why people procrastinate or feel numb when asked to achieve certain things, I understood it's not just about being lazy. It often traces back to small traumas in their lives.

Although the word 'trauma' sounds severe, it doesn't always have to be tragic. There are big traumas and small traumas, and the procrastination we’re discussing often comes from small traumas. These are minor incidents or situations that we’ve experienced, which have hindered our ability to take action. Someone or something might have blocked us or undermined our confidence, leading to a fear of initiating tasks to avoid failure or



confrontation.

So, if you think you're lazy or if someone tells you that, know that may not be the real reason. Look deeper into yourself and ask what is stopping you. Give yourself a push and accept that, whether you succeed or fail, it's your effort that matters. The learning process is what counts.


Few Tips That I Follow:


  1. Make a Note of Three Small Goals for the Next Day

We often get so engrossed in achieving our long-term goals that we overlook the importance of small, daily successes. Long-term goals come with their own challenges and potential for failure, which can be discouraging. To avoid this, make a habit of setting three small goals for the next day. Start with tasks you know you can accomplish to build confidence. As you get comfortable, gradually increase the difficulty. These small successes will boost your confidence and motivate you to tackle more challenging tasks.

2. Talk a walk or exercise for at least 20 minutes

It might seem odd to link exercise with procrastination, but it's incredibly effective. Engaging in daily physical activity, whether it's a walk in nature or a workout, helps release negative hormones and boosts your energy levels. This, in turn, provides the push needed to start and tackle your tasks for the day. Regular exercise helps you manage your emotions and equips you to handle any challenges that comes your way. Don’t overlook this crucial step.

3. Habit tracker

A habit tracker is a powerful tool to help you stay on top of your goals and reduce procrastination. By visually tracking your progress, you can see how consistently you're working towards your objectives. This not only provides a sense of accomplishment but also keeps you accountable. Start by listing the habits you want to develop and mark them off each day you complete them. Over time, you'll build a streak that motivates you to keep going and reinforces positive behaviors.


Having said of all of these, most importantly, remember that it’s not about others—it’s about you.

"Procrastination is like a credit card: it's a lot of fun until you get the bill." –Christopher Parker

 

Are you ready to overcome procrastination and embrace personal growth? Dive into the journey of understanding and valuing your efforts today.

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