“Procrastination” is basically a coined word

We throw the word “Procrastination“It’s like a real diagnosis. That’s not the case. It’s a vague catch-all for something more specific and modifiable.

When someone says they’re being procrastinated, what they really mean: “I’m doing something other than what I know I should.” The problem is why, And, in collaboration with my high performers for over 40 years, the reason falls into four main categories.

Let’s take a look at what’s actually happening underneath the surface.

1. You’re not focused (even if you think you are)

Lena, PhD student, came to me saying she was being put off on the paper. She did the research. She even had an outline. But every time she sat down and wrote, she “couldn’t concentrate.” Her phone was always nearby. she was I’m sleeping It’s not enough. Her mind was always bounced back between tasks.

The fog was lifted as we dealt with her sleep, introduced short-time writing sprints, and trained her with simple breath-based focus exercises. Within a few weeks she was writing consistently.

The focus is not just Willpower-It’s about the nation. If your mind and body are not calming, you Note It will be scattered. period.

2. Your goals are vague (or not yours)

Jake, a 40-year-old executive, continued to delay his presentation to the board. He called it a procrastination. But the truth? He didn’t actually know what the goals of the presentation were. He had no clarity or ownership.

I worked to define goals in one sentence. “This year, we show the board how our department can increase profitability by 10%.” That clarity quickly gave him direction. He stopped stalling and started working.

In your case the goal It’s fuzzy or really doesn’t make any sense to you – your brain resists. Clarity and personal investment are fuel.

3. Time management system is broken

The name Marisol, a senior high school I coached, was behind the university application form. Her mom thought she was lazy. She wasn’t. She didn’t know how to schedule it.

I mapped the calendar using a 30 minute task block and split it between. She set a phone timer. I taught her to plan instead of the deadline. The difference was immediately. What I found overwhelming has become viable.

Many people underestimate how long a task is taking, not explaining the transition time, or attempting to multitask throughout their lives. It’s not lazy – it’s a poor construction.

4. I choose to be distracted rather than discomfort

The startup founder, Ray, was unable to write up-to-date information from investors. Every time he sat in one draft he had to “suddenly” clean his kitchen, walk his dog, and answer emails. Under all of that? fear. What if investors don’t like the numbers? What happens if they deduct the funds?

Ordered discomfort and after sitting and practicing with it, he wrote an email. Discomfort is a normal part of high stakes work. You can’t avoid it, but you can Train yourself to exist through it.

Stop saying “procrastination.” Start asking what’s really going on.

The next time I say, “I’m procrastinating,” I stop. I’m interested. listen:

• Are you calm enough to concentrate?
• Is my goal clear and meaningful?
• Did I organize my time well?
• Are you avoiding discomfort?

These are real questions. And they lead to a real solution.

If you want to calm your science-influenced system, Confidenceand focus under pressure, my book Smash your test anxiety It helps whether you’re preparing for testing, pitch, or performance.

Remember: There is no procrastination issue. There are challenges with focus, goals, time, or discomfort. And good news? All of them can be fixed.