i previously wrote about this here but figured it can do with more info.
to be clear, i am speaking to those who procrastinate but still get things done within deadlines.
many of my clients talks about procrastination at some point. and i often asked if they eventually get the things done and within deadline and/or what was the consequences of their procrastination.
and almost all the time, there were little or no consequences because they do get the thing done and within deadlines that will affect others.
which means, they are making it an issue because they were told ‘procrastination is bad’.
some of you love adrenaline rush, feeling alive with hot flashes, heart pumping when you are rushing for deadlines.
if you do that and still meet the deadline, why not? if you are getting the adrenaline rush instead of committing a crime or engaging in dangerous activity just for the same effect.. why not?
for others, their brain works on focus mode nearer to deadlines and can complete something in 2 hrs. (this is usually me)
it would have been a waste of time if we try to start 2 days ago and had to pull our hair out trying to get it started/done.
there is no issue when someone procrastinate UNLESS it affects someone else. eg. the overall deadline is Friday and it involves 2 tasks dependent on the other. so someone is waiting for your task before he/she can get to work but only receive it on Fri morning.
even with this situation, the issue is not procrastination. it is your management and discernment. a decent way to approach is to set a different deadline so the colleague can takeover from you and complete by Fri.
we have been taught that procrastination is “bad”. because it means someone is lazy or someone is putting aside things because it is unpleasant. but is it really?
humans aren’t drawn to pain and suffering by default. although yes, some are drawn to them because it is safe and familiar but mostly we seek pleasure.
it is human nature to avoid unpleasantness. so how is that a bad thing?
the act of procrastination itself is neither a good nor bad thing. in fact, i see that some are just honouring the way they work.. their style, thought process, energy etc.
so stop trying to stop procrastination for the sake of it and expect yourself to work like a robot with a click of a button.