Sunday Musings
Sunday Musings
Doing the Boring or Scary Stuff First
Tell me I’m not the only one who does this, please. I create a to-do list in my mind, and then get totally turned off by some of the actions on the list. In an attempt to put them off for later (or quite possibly never doing them at all), I perform insignificant tasks to fill up my time. Just now, for example, instead of working on this newsletter, I decided it would be much more efficient if I started looking at Christmas present ideas online.
What is wrong with me?
In searching for answers, I immediately gravitated toward the ones that made me feel better about myself, like this quote from a psychologist:
“Procrastination can also help people prioritize engaging in aspects of their life that bring joy. Perhaps it’s ultimately better for your mental health if you go play that game of tennis instead of getting that project done on your list. Furthermore, you might come back to that project with more energy and new insights because you stepped away to do something else!”
That sounds great! I’m preserving my mental health by doing something I really enjoy, like spending money online. And then when I come back to writing this newsletter, I’ll be refreshed and write something amazing.
But that feels too much like a free pass.
Here’s an explanation from McLean Hospital that hits closer to home:
“It makes sense that if you perceive an activity as boring or unpleasant, you’re far more likely to put it off until later.”
Okay, so boredom plays a role. But I don’t find writing this newsletter boring. (Although I do find folding the laundry kinda boring.)
But there’s more:
“The fear of being judged or embarrassed can cause you to put off scheduling meetings or completing projects.”
And then there’s this:
“If your sense of self-efficacy is low, you’re less likely to begin a task or to see it through.”
To summarize, based on the task at hand, I procrastinate out of
boredom (laundry, paying bills, dropping off books at the library)
fear (calling the doctor, writing this newsletter)
lack of confidence (trying a new personal or professional opportunity)
There’s one more part of that McLean Hospital article that I should have been thrilled to read: “It’s important to know: Procrastination is not a sign of laziness.”
Really? Because I think that even though boredom, fear and lack of confidence might be the main reasons why I procrastinate, I also believe that laziness keeps me from overcoming those challenges. It’s far easier to say, “I’m afraid to do this” or “That task bores me” than it is to say, “I’m worried that the outcome might not be good, but I’m going to give it my best try” or “I find that task about as exciting as watching paint dry, but it has to be done so I might as well get on with it.”
So at least for today, I’m going to get on with it, whether it’s folding towels or finishing this newsletter. Then I’m going to treat myself to a Sunday nap.
What’s one boring or scary item you’re going to check off your to-do list today?
