I recently listened to a Marie Forleo podcast episode about procrastination.
Some of the stats she shared were shocking:
The average person spends 218 minutes a day or 55 days a year procrastinating.
And procrastination costs the US economy 70 billion a year!
She also suggested procrastinating impacts our health causing stress, depression and anxiety.
For her tips on avoiding procrastination, I would recommend the episode.
You can also check out a few posts I’ve written – here, here, here, and here.
This podcast episode triggered me to dig in a little more.
I found a LOT of interesting information.
One was that there are 6 types of procrastinators.
Knowing our type(s), we are better able to develop strategies to overcome.
Below is a description of each.
The Perfectionist
This type delays tasks because they fear making mistakes or not doing a job perfectly. They set unrealistically high standards for themselves, which often leads to analysis paralysis, preventing them from starting or completing tasks.
Ideas to Stop Procrastination:
- Set Realistic Goals: Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps with specific deadlines.
- Embrace Imperfection: Recognize that “good enough” is often sufficient.
- Limit Time: Set a timer for how long you’ll spend on a task and commit to finishing.
- Focus on Action: Prioritize completing activities even if they are not perfect.
The Dreamer
Dreamers tend to have big ideas and visions but often struggle with the practical steps required to achieve them. They procrastinate because they find details & mundane tasks boring or overwhelming, preferring to focus on the big picture rather than small, necessary actions.
Ideas to Stop Procrastination:
- Create a Plan: Develop a concrete action plan with specific tasks.
- Set Measurable Goals: Define clear, actionable steps to take each day.
- Visualize the Process: Visualize networking, preparing applications, and interviews.
- Use a Productivity Tool: Use tools like calendars, task lists, or apps to track progress.
The Avoider
Avoiders delay tasks to avoid fear of judgment, failure, or success. They may worry about what others will think or fear that their efforts will lead to criticism. This fear-based procrastination often results in putting off tasks to avoid emotional discomfort.
Ideas to Stop Procrastination:
- Reframe Fear: Shift your mindset by focusing on what you gain by acting.
- Start Small: Begin with low-risk tasks, like reaching out to a friend or mentor for advice.
- Seek Support: Share your job search goals with a trusted friend or career coach.
- Practice Self-Compassion: Recognize that fear and rejection is normal.
The Crisis Maker
This type thrives under pressure and believes they work best in high-stress situations. They procrastinate until the last minute, creating a crisis that forces them to complete the task quickly. They may delay starting tasks because they think they can accomplish more in less time when under stress.
Ideas to Stop Procrastination:
- Create Artificial Deadlines: Set early deadlines for yourself that feel urgent.
- Build Routine: Develop a daily or weekly routine for your job search activities.
- Identify Triggers: Recognize what situations trigger your crisis-mode behavior.
- Reward Steady Progress: Reward yourself for consistent, small efforts.
The Overdoer
The overdoer procrastinators often fill their time with many low-priority tasks to avoid more critical, challenging, or uncomfortable tasks. They may feel they are productive, but their activity does not necessarily lead to meaningful progress, often leading to busywork that distracts from important goals.
Ideas to Stop Procrastination:
- Prioritize Tasks: Focus on high-impact activities rather than low-value tasks.
- Set Time Blocks: Dedicate specific time blocks for critical activities.
- Practice Mindfulness: Stay aware of when you’re using busywork to avoid important tasks.
- Limit Low-Value Activities: Set limits on time spent on less productive activities.
The Defier
Defier procrastinate as a form of resistance against expectations or demands placed upon them. They dislike feeling controlled or told what to do, so they delay tasks to assert their independence, even if this behavior negatively impacts their goals.
Ideas to Stop Procrastination:
- Align Actions with Values: Find ways to align your job search activities with what matters.
- Set Your Own Rules: Give yourself autonomy by setting your own job search rules.
- Find an Accountability Partner: Work with a friend or mentor for accountability.
- Focus on Small Wins: Start with small tasks that don’t feel restrictive and build up.
Your Turn
Do you see yourself in any of these descriptions?
Are there strategies you use to get yourself out of procrastination mode?
Can self-awareness of these types provide new ideas for getting out of procrastination?