One of the ways I have mostly managed to overcome my Procrastination is to understand there are no guarantees for how things turn out. In working with many different types of Procrastinators, I've noticed a not-so-subtle theme — Procrastinators control, delay, and manage their behavior in order to make sure the outcome they have is perfect.
What is perfect? Well, that varies from person to person of course. Perfect could mean:
- it's packed with every possible piece of information known to man
- it's a shining example of the author's true worth as a human being
- it's a product that, once completed, is not subject to any criticism or review
- it's imbued with magical powers to prevent future disappointments
Well now, no wonder we can't get those got-to-be-perfect projects done. I know I tend to write a lot on the topic of perfectionism, but I do feel it may be at the top of the list of the “Most Brutal Patterns of Thinking Procrastinators Need to Recover from Before Moving Forward.” (#it'sjustamadeuplist)
So, about that recovery you are seeking. Please take a moment to ask yourself:
“What version of perfect am I secretly (or unconsciously) waiting for via my Procrastination?”
When we seek a sure-fire technique of doing our work, we end up in negotiation with that part of us that actually can get things done. Instead of enabling ourselves to progress, all of a sudden we are locked in debilitating debates with ourselves:
- “I will not feel comfortable finishing this until I know I've read everything I can.”
- “I know I won't hand this in until I'm sure it's better than what my colleagues are doing.”
- “I will not feel good about my work because I don't see my own value.”
- “I will not let other people read this because they will think I don't know what I'm doing.”
The immense pressure these types of self-statements has on our work cannot be understated. Whenever we attach extra meaning to our work we strangle it and bring it closer to non-existence. It's as if we are waiting for our guarantee to be given to us before we allow ourselves to move forward. We may desire promises that our work may actually get us:
- respect
- approval
- recognition
- responsibility
- authority
- acceptance
- a free pass in life (make sure to let me know how to get one of these if you happen to know)
Although these promises may be immensely appealing, by attaching these desires to our work, we also attach the possibility that the work will not happen.
Procrastinators are famous for short-circuiting projects to prevent them from being evaluated and seen in the light of day. Don't be a famous Procrastinator. That's my job.
Do your work. Just your work and the rest will follow. You cannot control these processes from the room you are hiding out in. Let people see you. You will be okay.
Hope you have a wonderful week. Remember you can follow me on Twitter or Facebook for more reflections, links, and tips on taking Procrastination down.
