Procrastination is the act of unnecessarily delaying or postponing a task or set of tasks despite knowing that it may lead to negative consequences. It involves putting off important or required actions in favor of less urgent or more pleasurable activities. Procrastination can be situational or become chronic, and it is often linked to feelings of guilt, anxiety, low self- esteem, and decreased productivity. While common among many people, procrastination can impact various areas of life including work, study, and personal goals. It is considered a self-defeating behavior pattern where short-term relief from avoiding tasks results in long-term costs.
Key aspects of procrastination:
- It is delaying tasks that need to be done, often because they are unpleasant or boring.
- Procrastinators tend to choose easier or more enjoyable tasks instead of the ones they actually need to complete.
- It can be a response to fear, anxiety, perfectionism, poor time management, or lack of motivation.
- Though sometimes seen as laziness, procrastination is a complex behavior linked to self-regulation difficulties.
- Chronic procrastination affects 20-25% of adults and can be associated with mental health challenges like depression and anxiety.
This explanation captures the general meaning, causes, and impacts of procrastination as studied by psychologists and behavioral researchers.
