PROCRASTINATION

Procrastination is an attitude to put off intentionally and habitually the doing of something that needs to be done. The term ‘procrastination comes from the Latin word ‘procrastinatus’, which itself evolved from the prefix ‘pro’ meaning ‘forward’ and ‘crastinus’ meaning ‘of tomorrow.’ Popularly it implies blameworthy delay due to laziness or apathy.

However, this Monday Muse looks at the procrastination habit that seizes non-lazy, proactive people as well. In fact it is positive qualities of well intentioned persons that can result in them finding themselves in a position of procrastination. These qualities include perfectionism, being analytical, saying ‘Yes’ to every task and being ‘busy’.

For instance while perfectionism can be a good thing, making every task hang at its altar results in immobility. Similarly, excessive analysis creates paralysis of action. Not being able to say ‘No’ results in overburdening and hence forces the door open for procrastination. And of course, when one is busy with a single task, other tasks go for a toss.

Procrastination is a result of mixed up priorities and excessive tactics. We must look at the larger picture and identify important and urgent tasks. If the task can be delegated, do it! We must be better at sifting and prioritising all our commitments, our responsibilities as well as things we really enjoy doing… lest procrastination pulls down the proactive person in us as well!

To BE BETTER at overcoming the pulls of procrastination
Let’s prioritise responsibilities & commit to timely action!

- Pravin K. Sabnis
Mysore, India.