Is it weird to make excuses to avoid starting important work?

Not at all. Most people have experienced the urge to delay tasks, especially when they feel daunting or complex. This often happens because our brains are wired to seek immediate gratification and avoid discomfort, even if it means putting off something beneficial in the long run. It's a common human tendency to find reasons to postpone challenging activities.

Research from DePaul University suggests that approximately 20% of adults are chronic procrastinators, consistently delaying important tasks across various aspects of their lives.

See other perspectives

Am I the only one who makes excuses to avoid starting important work?

Am I the Only One?

Does everyone make excuses to avoid starting important work?

Does Everyone?

Is it normal to make excuses to avoid starting important work?

Is It Normal?

Why do I make excuses to avoid starting important work?

Why Do I?

Real stories from the community

And my dissertation is due in three weeks. …

procrastination shame

I know my parents would just die if they saw the pile of tax papers on my desk and I haven't even touched them in months and I walk past it every day and it just sits there.

procrastination shame

The crickets outside are going absolutely bonkers, probably because it's gonna be another scorcher tomorrow, and all I can think about is this annual review cycle kicking off. …

procrastination shame

I’ve been staring at that little blue folder for three months now, that dissertation file, and every time Professor Chen sends a polite little ping about my progress, a wave of pre-emptive somatic… …

procrastination shame

Anyone else get this physical dread in their stomach when annual reviews start, knowing you have to finally talk to someone you've been avoiding for like, months, about how they're just... …

procrastination shame

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I always find reasons to delay tasks?▾
Delaying tasks often stems from a desire to avoid perceived difficulty, fear of failure, or simply a lack of immediate motivation. The brain prefers easier, more enjoyable activities, leading it to invent reasons to postpone less pleasant ones.
What's the difference between procrastination and laziness?▾
Procrastination is actively choosing to delay a task despite knowing the negative consequences, often due to emotional regulation challenges. Laziness is a general unwillingness to exert effort, regardless of the task's importance or deadline.
How can I stop making excuses and start working?▾
Breaking down large tasks into smaller steps, setting realistic deadlines, and focusing on starting rather than finishing can be helpful. Identifying the underlying reason for the excuse (e.g., fear, boredom) can also provide insight.

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