Procrastination Isn’t Laziness

Well hello there and Happy Monday! I’m Monica Wofford and this is your Monday Moment.

Leaders often tell me they’re procrastinating. Except, often they’re not. They beat themselves up for being lazy, but putting something off, or procrastination isn’t the same as lazy.

It’s usually uncertainty.

• You don’t know where to start.
• You don’t know how long it will take.
• You don’t know if you’ll get it right.

So your brain says, “Let’s organize a drawer instead or get ice cream instead of going to the gym” Sound familiar? Besides I know how to eat ice cream. I’m not so sure how to use half the machines at a gym. So, the next time you catch yourself putting something off, ask:

“What specifically am I avoiding?”

The answer is usually one of three things:

• Fear of failure
• Lack of clarity
• Lack of energy

Once you know which one it is, the solution becomes easier.

You don’t need motivation. You need movement.

Take one step.
Write one paragraph.
Make one phone call.
Schedule one meeting.

Progress creates momentum. Momentum creates confidence. And confidence often eliminates procrastination.

I’m Monica Wofford and let’s keep talking… leadership.