Is it normal to make excuses to avoid starting important work?
Absolutely. It's very common to find ourselves inventing reasons, big or small, to put off tasks that feel challenging or overwhelming. This isn't a sign of laziness but often a natural response to perceived difficulty, fear of failure, or even the sheer magnitude of the work ahead. Many people experience this pattern, even when they know the work needs to get done.
Research indicates that over 80% of students and 20% of adults self-identify as chronic procrastinators, frequently making excuses to delay tasks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I always procrastinate on big projects?▾
Procrastinating on big projects often stems from feeling overwhelmed by the scope, uncertainty about where to begin, or a fear of not meeting expectations. Breaking the project into smaller, manageable steps can make it feel less daunting and easier to start.
What's the difference between laziness and procrastination?▾
Laziness is generally a lack of desire to exert effort, while procrastination is the intentional delay of a task despite knowing the negative consequences. Procrastination is often driven by emotional regulation issues, like avoiding stress or fear, rather than a lack of energy.
How can I stop making excuses and just start working?▾
Focus on taking the very first, smallest step, even if it's just opening the relevant document or making a to-do list for 5 minutes. Sometimes, starting the momentum is the hardest part. Try setting a timer for a short burst of work to overcome the initial resistance.
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