“There's a widespread saying that procrastination is a thief of time. The individual who procrastinates does not have the problem of not knowing what to do. Instead, they know what to do but keep pushing it aside.

Each project or goal has a known schedule. If not adhered to, this delay can affect the execution of other projects. Many leaders and team members understand how important it is to meet up with deadlines but cannot help but procrastinate until it is too late.

Unfortunately, many people have not been able to identify or give a name to the setbacks they face in delivering projects within the specified time. To solve a problem, you must first recognize it for what it is. Doing so will help you to know how best to tackle it.

Why Do People Procrastinate?

There are several reasons why people procrastinate, and they include:

#1. Abstract Goals

When goals are not specific, the tendency for procrastination increases. You tend to push aside a task you have not grasped the full scope. However, a clearly defined goal can still be considered abstract if it looks unrealistic. Abstract goals can rob the people tasked with carrying out the energy and zeal required to start the project.

#2. Anxiety

Anxiety is one of the top reasons why people procrastinate. For instance, an individual who has fear around their credit reports may postpone checking them for a long time. This postponement does not make the task go away. However, it offers the person temporary relief. 

People are wired differently and, as a result, may handle anxiety differently. For example, while one person may decide to clear off tasks that make them anxious immediately, others may push forward until they have no other alternative than to attend to it.

#3. The Fear of Failure

The fear of failure is one of my "Four Fears of Leadership," and it has the power to paralyze a person, making them either postpone starting a task or finishing it. Where fear of failure is the main thing causing procrastination, an individual is more likely to procrastinate on significant projects when compared to lesser projects. The more critical the project is, the more likely they will procrastinate.

How to Stop Procrastination

The following tips can help you tackle procrastination and achieve more with time.

1. Organize your time and keep track of all the tasks you must carry out. Set a schedule for each and work on them one at a time

2. Apply the delayed gratification method. This you can achieve by rewarding yourself each time you accomplish a task. The reward can be as small as eating your favorite snack or taking a movie break after completing your job.

3. Set goals and stick to them

4. Learn to prioritize. Doing so will help you to focus attention on the most urgent tasks

5. Be accountable to someone. Holding yourself responsible for tasks is a great way to avoid procrastination.

Conclusion

Your behavior (habits and systems), emotions, and thoughts are all connected. So no matter what, the primary reason is for your tendency to put off certain tasks, take time to experiment with several options, and find the ones that work best for you.