So, I’ve found myself procrastinating a lot this week and it got me thinking about the rollercoaster of emotions that comes up when we procrastinate. Because let’s face it, it’s not just about putting things off; it’s a whole whirlwind of feelings that we experience along the way.
First up, we have the initial thrill of avoidance. A sense of relief and liberation when we decide to delay a task. It’s like a weight lifted off our shoulders, and for a brief moment, we revel in the freedom of not having to deal with our responsibilities. If we’re not careful it can be quite addictive.
But soon enough, that joy is swiftly followed by guilt. We know we should be doing something productive, and that nagging voice in our heads starts chiming in, reminding us of our obligations. The guilt creeps in along with self-judgment. We start questioning our own discipline and ability to get things done, and it’s not the most pleasant feeling in the world.
Then, as time starts slipping away, the urgency of the task at hand intensifies and anxiety kicks in. The deadline looms closer, and suddenly, we find ourselves caught in the grip of worry and stress. Thoughts like “Will I have enough time to finish this?” and “What if I mess it up?” start haunting our minds. It’s a nerve-wracking state that can leave us feeling overwhelmed and anxious.
We also get frustrated with ourselves for not taking action sooner, for squandering precious time on trivial things. The realisation dawns on us that we could have been so much further along if we had just buckled down and gotten started. It’s like a love-hate relationship with our own choices, and it can be infuriating.
But amidst all these negative emotions, the feeling of familiarity and comfort can make procrastination sometimes feel like a cosy retreat, a place where we seek solace from the pressures of the outside world. It becomes a default mode, a way to temporarily escape the demands and expectations placed upon us. It’s a bittersweet refuge, even though we know it’s not sustainable or beneficial in the long run.
So, for all you procrastinators out there, let’s acknowledge the swirling mix of emotions that we have to navigate when we procrastinate. It’s a complicated cocktail of relief, guilt, anxiety, frustration, and familiarity. Understanding these emotions can help us recognise the patterns and triggers that lead us down the path of procrastination. And then let that awareness inspire you to find healthier ways to deal with your tasks and responsibilities.
Now, who’s up for tackling that to-do list? Or maybe just one more episode before we start? 😉
