%20(9).png){kind=small}
Are you constantly finding yourself struggling to achieve your goals, especially when you are facing a deadline, yet you can't seem to start working or make decisions until the eleventh hour? Procrastination is a common form of self-sabotage that affects many of us. Understanding why we procrastinate from a neuropsychological perspective can help us overcome this barrier to our success, goals and dreams.
Why do we procrastinate?
Procrastination, like other forms of self-sabotage, is rooted in our thoughts and emotions. It's not simply a matter of poor time management or laziness. Instead, it reflects deeper beliefs and emotions that are driving us to delay important decisions and tasks.
For instance, you may have an important project you're passionate about, or need to take steps to move forward in your life, career, or business. However, if you hold a subconscious belief that it needs to be perfect before you can complete it or take the next step, this belief can cause you to put off taking the action you need to. You might find other tasks to occupy your time (Netflix mini-series anyone 😊?), but fundamentally, this avoidance can be a manifestation of a deeper fear of failure or an overall feeling not good enough.
These subconscious beliefs act as powerful deterrents to our conscious goals, making it challenging to do what is needed even when we genuinely want to succeed. This is where the cycle of frustration kicks in leaving you feeling disheartened and wondering if you will ever get started, or even complete it at all. What impact is that having on your life, your goals, your dreams?
Changing subconscious patterns of procrastination
To combat procrastination, it's essential to understand and reframe our subconscious beliefs. Here are five steps to help you do that:
Identify your core subconscious beliefs. Reflect on your patterns of procrastination and behaviour to become aware of the underlying beliefs that are holding you back. Do you believe it won’t be good enough unless it's perfect? Do you fear failure or even success? Recognising these limiting beliefs brings them into the light, making them easier to address. (I have a great free resource to help you identify these beliefs, you can download it here)
Understand the positive intention behind your procrastination. Every behaviour has a positive intention which is essentially trying to keep you safe. Procrastination might be a way to protect yourself from the fear of failure, criticism, or even the pressure of success. Acknowledging this intention is crucial for moving forward. What is your greatest fear here? Is this fear real and based on truth?
Release associated emotions. Emotions are the language of the subconscious mind. Allowing yourself to feel and release the fear, anxiety, or overwhelm associated with your decision or task can help weaken the hold of procrastination. When you take the step to act, where do you ‘feel’ the inner resistance in your body? Focus on that place and see if you can identify what feels stuck there. Is there an image or a word that comes up for you? Journal on that and notice what themes appear to be showing up.
Seek accountability: Share your goals with a friend, or family member and ask them to check in on your progress and be supportive. Knowing that someone else is aware of what you want to achieve, and creating set deadlines can provide an extra layer of motivation to stay on track. Alternatively, working alongside a coach, even virtually, can help create a sense of solidarity and support, making the task feel less isolating.
Adopt healthier beliefs and practices. Replace your self-limiting beliefs with empowering ones that support the woman you are becoming. Remind yourself that it's okay to make mistakes, that every effort counts, and that you're capable of learning and growing from challenges! Practicing time management skills and rewarding yourself for small achievements which can also reinforce positive habits and behaviours.
Procrastination doesn't have to be a roadblock to your success. By understanding and addressing the subconscious beliefs that drive it, you can take meaningful steps toward achieving your goals and overcoming self-sabotage. If you want to dive deeper into understanding how self-sabotage can impact your life, your mindset, and body, reach out today to get unstuck and begin your journey of self-discovery and empowerment ❤
Book a FREE discovery call here: https://calendly.com/intuitiveliving/freediscoverycall
Visit the website at www.judescottintuitiveliving.com
Instagram: @judescottintuitiveliving
Grab your freebies! - Subscribe to the Intuitive Living newsletter and receive the FREE 'How to Break the Cycle of Negative Self Talk' guide & workbook... and more in the Free Member Resources area! Sign up here: http://eepurl.com/izJwEI
#selfsabotage #selfcare #selfworth #mindset #anxiety #mentalhealthawareness #womensempowerment #healing #limitingbeliefs #selfdoubt #mindsetcoach #personaldevelopment #subconsciousmind #innercritic #motivation #therapy #emotionalhealth #coaching #psychology #growthmindset #selfawareness #procrastination