Did you know that procrastination can be a sign of emotional neglect?
People often equate procrastination with being “lazy” or having poor time-management skills. However, a growing body of research suggests that procrastination is an issue of emotional regulation instead. I want to share some of the roots of procrastination and some helpful ways to address it. Chronic procrastination is usually a sign of an underlying, unresolved emotional problem. For example, children who grew up having their emotional needs met and were encouraged to take risks, don’t fear failure. These securely attached people don’t necessarily avoid failure, they just have the ability to regroup. In contrast, if you grew up in a household where support was short in supply, you’re likely to assume that failure symbolizes your flaws, instead of a simple miscalculation. Your response to a setback may echo what you were told growing up.
Here are a few ways to work through your procrastination.
1. Reward yourself by watching your favorite show after you complete the task. Inversely, watching the show could also become a consequence in which you withhold turning on Netflix until you complete the task.
2. Give yourself permission to fail. A 2010 study found that students who forgave themselves for procrastinating when studying were less likely to procrastinate when studying for the next exam. Compassion is key.
3. Work with a therapist to figure out what these underlying issues could be and how you can overcome the habit of procrastination. At Daybreak Counseling Center, we believe that you deserve to live a life that isn’t dictated by trauma or emotional neglect. If you struggle with procrastination, emotional neglect, or trauma and are interested in getting help or talking to a therapist about it give us a call us to today at 562-566-4257 to schedule an appointment or visit our website at www.daybreakcounselingcent.com for more information. Patrick Cleveland, LMFT Founder & Clinical Director Daybreak Counseling Center Serving Long Beach, Cerritos, & Online Throughout all of California
About the Author
Patrick Cleveland, L.M.F.T.
Patrick is the Founder and Executive Director of Daybreak Counseling Center with over 23 years of experience in the mental health field. He specializes in helping high-functioning adults, professionals, couples, and families navigate anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, and personal development. Patrick uses an integrative, evidence-based approach that blends psychoanalytic therapy, Internal Family Systems, and modern therapeutic methods to support lasting emotional growth and healing.
You don't have to be in a crisis to ask for help.
Many of our clients come to us feeling stuck, exhausted, or just not quite themselves. That’s enough.
Patrick Cleveland, L.M.F.T.
September 26, 2022