Peace of Wisdom – Why do we put off doing things?

Why We Procrastinate and How to Stop in 3 ways.

Why We Procrastinate and How to Stop in 3 Ways.

As I was trying to figure out how to start this new year off, with all of its hopes and dreams, anticipation, and do-overs, I could not help but wonder if I was missing something.

I avoided some things big time, and yet it still needs to get done. Why do I do that? It is always in the back of my mind, and the minute I do it, it no longer holds power over me.

My mind is clear, and I am on to the next thing.

It’s peculiar how sometimes we procrastinate on tasks that we know are important, only to realize their weight on our minds once we finally address them.

The relief from tackling these avoided tasks outweighs the discomfort of taking action. It’s a common human experience to put off certain undertakings only to find a sense of liberation and mental clarity upon their completion.

While this behavior can sometimes puzzle us, it reminds us of our power to alleviate our anxieties and move forward unburdened. In other words, we have the power to free ourselves from this burden if we choose to. So, that is the purpose of this post.

Why We Procrastinate and How to Stop in 3 Ways.

Just Do It Already, Cadeegirl gee, and get it over with! This is what I tell myself. Sometimes, I listen to myself, and sometimes I do not.

What I have been putting off for years was organizing pictures, photos, diplomas, achievements, retirements, recitals, graduations, significant life accomplishments, love letters, many of our children’s childhood projects and their adulthood achievements, and many more items.

Sounds easy? Nope! But I finally did it. I completed the task yesterday. I separated, threw away some things, and mailed off stuff to the family. It took me five days and at least 50 hours to complete the project.

I do not want to see another picture, photo, or letter. Now I understand why my subconscious mind was running from the task.

Completing this task was a significant achievement for me. Over five days, I dedicated a substantial amount of time and effort, which took at least 50 hours, to complete this project.

I ended up having fun.

Remembering how we started as a couple and growing our family, it was so innocent and pure. There was so much I did not know then and have learned since then. And there were many great memories I had forgotten! Thank you, Father, for your protection, wisdom, and understanding throughout the years.

Reflecting on the experience, I realize the magnitude of the mental and emotional investment required to see this task through. The depth of my commitment became evident as I dug deep into the project details, understanding the reasons behind my initial reluctance.

However, with unwavering determination, I persisted, and the sense of accomplishment upon completion is genuinely unparalleled.

This experience has given me valuable insights into how I think- how I am wired- revealing and influencing my approach to the task.

Moving forward, I carry the lessons from this experience, equipped with a newfound understanding of my capabilities and resilience.

This accomplishment reminds me of the power of dedication and determination, inspiring me to tackle future challenges with renewed confidence and insight.

When I look at what I have been putting off organizing and passing out photos, love letters that their father and I wrote back and forth to each other over 40 years ago, (there was so much rich history in the letters because not only were they signed and dated but I was very detailed in what each child was doing at that particular time in their life.

There are certificates, diplomas, and the list goes on and on with what I saved. Letters and notes that the kids had written when they were young. They were hilarious. I am holding onto those. My purpose is to pass them out to family members because every piece contains history and legacy that needs to be passed on to the next generation.

I digressed.

The point is we all put off something, whether it is –

• Studying for that exam,
• Exercising
• Washing the car, clothes
• Giving bad news
• Leaving an unfulfilling job
• Or leaving an unfulfilling relationship

Some things are apparent –

• The task is unpleasant.
• There is no incentive to do it
• The task is time-consuming (you could think of a million other things to do)
• Or maybe you do not want to hurt someone’s feelings (because then you have to deal with the emotions attached to that.)

But what if it is more profound than that?

What if, on a deeper level, you are not good with time management, afraid of failing afraid of the repercussions or do not like change?

Why We Procrastinate and How to Stop in 3 Ways.

ONE

Time management is a crucial skill to stay productive and achieve your goals. However, if you find it easy to put off essential tasks, you could struggle with managing your time effectively.

You may have intended to complete a project but procrastinated for months or years. You still have not started or completed the task. You thought about it many times but never started that task.

Putting off of things can sometimes lead to stress and feeling overwhelmed.

Instead of letting these tasks pile up, taking action and scheduling them in your calendar is essential.

One effective way to approach a task such as washing your car, washing clothes, or exercising is to set it as a goal, whether it’s a short-term or a long-term goal.

Goal setting can help you stay focused and motivated and give you a sense of direction. Even if the task is small, completing it can give you a sense of achievement and help you build momentum towards larger goals.

Or, at the very least, get your mind off of it.

To help you stay on top of your tasks, you can use electronic devices or calendars to keep track of your schedule. Inputting or writing down your goal can help you identify any potential conflicts or overlaps in your schedule.

You can use sticky notes or reminders in your work area to keep your tasks present until they are done. Setting an alarm or reminder can also be helpful to keep you on track and ensure you don’t forget any important deadlines or appointments.

You can stay productive and achieve your desired outcomes by managing time effectively and setting clear goals.

Remember, it’s never too late to start managing your time more effectively, and every step you take towards better time management is a step towards a more fulfilling and successful life and a clear mind to fill it with something you enjoy!

Why We Procrastinate and How to Stop in 3 Ways.

TWO

Many people struggle with the fear of failing, which can hold them back from pursuing their goals and dreams. For years, I desired to return to school, but I feared that I would fail. It was a constant thought in my mind, and I didn’t put much effort into it because of this fear.

However, with much prayer and encouragement, I took the first step and enrolled in a class. It was a difficult decision, but it was the right one. I put in the effort and passed the class successfully. Taking baby steps gave me the confidence to take another class the following semester, and I realized I could do it.

Deciding to leave an unfulfilling job or relationship can be an overwhelming experience. It can be challenging to let go of something you had high hopes for or invested a lot of time in.

However, it’s essential to recognize that sometimes things change, and what once seemed like a perfect fit may no longer be fulfilling.

It’s important to understand that it’s not necessarily your fault. It’s possible that the circumstances have changed, or you may have grown and evolved in a different direction.

If you’ve been putting off ending an unfulfilling job or relationship, it’s crucial to consider its impact on you and the other person involved.

Holding onto a job that doesn’t satisfy you is unfair to yourself and may also be preventing someone else from getting the job they’ve been praying for. Similarly, staying in a relationship that makes you both miserable is cheating yourself out of the happiness that you deserve.

It’s essential to take the time to weigh all the facts and plan for your next steps before making a decision. Consider the impact it may have on your life and those around you.

Once you’ve made your decision, it’s essential to approach it with dignity and respect for everyone involved. Whether it’s leaving a job or ending a relationship, it’s crucial to do so in a way that reflects your values and respects the feelings of others.

Remember that change can be scary and a catalyst for growth and positive transformation.

Atychiphobia is the medical term used to define the fear of failure. People who have this phobia tend to avoid situations where they think they may fail.

Fear of failure can include sports, competitions, job promotions, or even asking for a raise. The fear of failing can be paralyzing, but it can be overcome with the right mindset and support. Recognizing this fear and taking small steps toward overcoming it is crucial.

THREE

Why We Procrastinate and How to Stop in 3 Ways.

Many people struggle with the fear of change. It’s natural to feel this way, as change can be unsettling and disruptive. When you’ve learned something, somebody changes it, and it can be frustrating to adapt to new circumstances.

They say it’s to keep things fresh and new, but you might feel like it’s just to confuse you and keep you out of your comfort zone.

You might want a new position, but you’ll have to learn new skills, which can be daunting. You might want to move, but leaving the familiar and entering the unknown can be scary.

You might want to explore other options, but it’s comfortable where you are, and taking a risk can be intimidating.

The fear of change has its phobia – Metathesiophobia.

Metathesiophobia is a specific type of anxiety that is characterized by an intense fear of change. We all want to feel in control and know that everything will work out, but change can make us feel like we’re losing our grip on things. Not knowing if you’ll like the new state or country you move to can be scary.

What if you get homesick or don’t like the food or climate? These are valid concerns that can make change seem very daunting. However, it’s important to remember that change can bring about new opportunities and experiences that we might never have had otherwise.

Why We Procrastinate and How to Stop in 3 Ways.

Conclusion
Three Ways to Stop Procrastinating

• Manage your time with goal setting or writing a to-do list and makingit realistic for you.
• Choose not to be afraid to fail because that is a part of your journey
• Have an open mind and heart. Change can be good, and the rewards can be life-changing

If you know what you want to achieve in life, then you are more inspired to change for the better.

Philip Vang

Change will not come if we wait for some other person, or if we wait for some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.

Barack Obama

Fear of Failure: What It Looks Like and How to Deal (verywellmind.com)

How to Overcome the Fear of Change | Psychology Today