I’ve learned a few things about procrastination that I thought might be helpful to share. So often, we feel drawn to make changes in our lives, but we often act along the lines of: “Why put something off until tomorrow if you could put it off until the day after tomorrow?” Unfortunately this is often accompanied by feelings of guilt or shame, and we slide further away from our initial goals.
Would you like to learn how to move past your feelings of failure and anxiety as you better understand what procrastination really is?
In my recent podcast with Dr. Matthew May (trained by Dr. David Burns!), my understanding of procrastination went to a whole new level, and here are a few of the highlights:
(1) Procrastination is a GREAT thing.
It’s not possible to do everything at once, so we have to put some things off. But it becomes an issue when it hurts your most important relationships, your health, or your life.
(2) Fail fast.
Sometimes we put off that course, diet, change, etc. because we’ve been burned so many times, and we’re not sure if anything will work. The solution? Fail fast so you can move onto the next thing. We’ve got to have hope that there IS a solution to every problem we face. We just can’t lose hope.
(3) Create a two-part list to help you change.
More details are in the podcast, but as a simple starter, get out a sheet of paper and divide it into two columns. On the left side, write the reasons why it’s better not to change. On the right, record what you know is true, deep down.
Here’s one of mine:
Enjoy! And if you haven’t yet attended our free training, “How to Finally Stop Drowning in Piles,” click here or on the image below to register!
Additional Helpful Links:
- Dr. May’s website
- Feeling Good Institute Website
- Book April Referenced: Procrastinate on Purpose
- TEAM Model of Therapy
- Podcast between Dr. Burns and Dr. May
- Addiction and Habit log, Daily Mood log (as a part of the Toolkit for therapists)
- Dr. Burns’ LearnDoBecome podcast with April
- Book: Getting Things Done
- Jacob Towery (Therapist for under 18, in CA)
Time Stamped PDF:
Aloha April,
I’m getting ready to start your STEP Momentum program in a couple days for the first time, and will also be adding the free 60days ARISE that you so generously are offering right now! Ever since the kick-off call on Sept. 3rd, I have been battling with procrastination and thoughts of past failed attempts at getting organized 🙁 So I decided to search your podcast list for something to help me move forward. Podcast 21 with Dr. Matthew May is just what I needed! So much practical help was delivered and the whole interview was relatable and I thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it!!! Bravo to you and Dr. May, bless you both for sharing your real life experiences as well.
I’m so glad this podcast was helpful! And way to go getting started with Momentum! It doesn’t have to be “perfect.” Every little step helps. Good luck!!