The Real Reason Why People Procrastinate: Expert Shares Insights

Have you ever found yourself putting off tasks until the last minute, despite knowing the looming consequences? If so, you're not alone. This pattern of behaviour, often mistaken for laziness, is called procrastination. To uncover the roots of procrastination, we spoke with Richa Mohta, a clinical psychologist, and founder of Self Pivot, who offered deep insights into why we procrastinate and how we can overcome it.

What Is Procrastination?

According to clinical psychologist Richa Mohta, "Procrastination is basically delaying or putting off tasks, which could be related to work such as deadlines or even a phone call, an errand, taking decisions, seeking help, etc." Despite its voluntary appearance, procrastination often leaves individuals feeling uncomfortable, and the thought of delaying tasks never truly leaves their minds.

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What Is The Difference Between Procrastination And Laziness?

It's easy to confuse procrastination with laziness, but expert Richa Mohta clarified that they are distinctly different. "The difference between the two is that of intention and how one feels when they are doing either of the two. The person who procrastinates does want to get the task done, but then there are blocks (mostly mental) that don't allow them to complete it," Mohta explained. Unlike laziness, where there is little to no intention to act, procrastination is marked by a desire to accomplish tasks, accompanied by feelings of discomfort and guilt for not doing them.

Why Do People Procrastinate?

Delving deeper, Mohta linked procrastination to underlying psychological factors. "Yes, there are a lot of reasons that connect trauma to procrastination," she noted. For instance, constant exposure to threatening situations can keep a person's nervous system in a heightened state of alertness, making even non-threatening tasks seem insurmountable. Additionally, early conditioning about perfectionism and fear of failure can also lead individuals to delay tasks.

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How To Stop Procrastinating?

Clinical psychologist, Richa Mohta offered practical advice for tackling procrastination. "Don't think of the mountain in front of you, but rather the first piece of rock," she suggested, encouraging people to focus on small, manageable steps. Furthermore, questioning deep-seated beliefs about failure and perfection can lighten the mental load associated with tasks. Techniques like mindfulness and physical check-ins can also help recalibrate one's emotional and physical state, making it easier to engage with tasks at hand.

Understanding the underlying psychological causes behind procrastination can empower us to address this pervasive issue more effectively. With expert guidance from professionals like Richa Mohta, individuals can learn to navigate their mental blocks and embrace a more productive lifestyle.

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