It’s easy to reach capacity with the overwhelming lives many of us lead these days. Juggling work, family and friends, health and fitness, and life admin is no mean feat. That’s not to mention all the content we are exposed to when scrolling on social media. It’s easier to buy a woven basket from Temu than to renew your car insurance, right?!
But, there is a time and a place for procrastination. Here Noona Nafousi, CEO or NEO NOOR and executive leadership coach, talks overwhelm, purposeful procrastination and why progress is better than perfection.
Can you tell us why people procrastinate? Is it something that is in everyone’s nature?
Noona: Procrastination is often tied to deeper issues such as limiting beliefs and self-doubt. Overcoming procrastination requires addressing both the mindset and the actions that keep you stuck. Here are my top tips:
Recognise and reframe limiting beliefs
Procrastination is often fueled by thoughts like, “I’m not good enough,” or “What if I fail?” These limiting beliefs can keep you from starting tasks. The first step is to identify these beliefs and actively reframe them. Instead of thinking, “I can’t do this,” shift your mindset to, “I’ve handled challenges before, and I can do this too.”
Break tasks into smaller steps
A common reason for procrastination is feeling overwhelmed. When a task feels too big, it’s easy to delay starting. The solution is to break tasks into smaller, manageable steps. This makes each step feel more achievable, allowing you to make progress without the overwhelming pressure.
Commit to imperfect action
Perfectionism can cause significant procrastination. Waiting for the perfect time or perfect conditions leads to delays. Instead, commit to taking action even if it’s imperfect. Progress is always better than perfection, and once you start, momentum will carry you forward.
Use time blocks for focus
Procrastination thrives when we feel we have endless time. By setting specific time blocks to work on a task, you create focus and urgency. For example, commit to working on a project for 30 minutes, and you’ll often find that getting started was the hardest part.
Are there things in life we should procrastinate on - things that can wait and do need time?
Noona: Yes, not everything needs immediate action. There are situations where delaying or postponing a decision can be beneficial, especially when done with intention rather than avoidance. These are some of examples of when procrastination is not a negative thing:
When you need more clarity or information
Rushing into decisions without enough information can lead to poor outcomes. Sometimes, taking the time to gather more data or let emotions settle will help you make better choices. This type of purposeful procrastination ensures you are making decisions from a place of understanding rather than impulse.
When creative solutions need time to incubate
Creativity often flourishes with a bit of breathing room. Stepping away from a problem can allow new ideas to form subconsciously. This is a productive type of procrastination where giving yourself time leads to more innovative solutions.
When the task isn’t aligned with your priorities
Not every task is worth immediate attention. If something doesn’t align with your long-term goals or priorities, it can-and should-wait. Strategic procrastination allows you to focus on what truly matters and avoid getting caught up in less important distractions.
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