Can Fear Or Anxiety Trigger Procrastination?
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Procrastination exists in many forms, and can be caused by many factors. It is usually known as the avoidance of accomplishing a certain task that should be tended to within a certain period of time. Not many of us can boast about never having procrastinated before.
Procrastination has many disguises – television, internet, email, books, household chores, telephone, sleep and even the excuse of helping a friend. Procrastinators keep themselves busy with the wrong tasks.
For many the underlying root problem of your procrastination is fear and anxiety. If you are not comfortable doing something, you naturally choose to ignore it. This problem is fairly common among students, but it is an issue at home and in the workplace as well.
Fear and anxiety over not completing a task or project leads to procrastination and this in turn causes more fear of failure. Interestingly enough, while it is fairly common to encounter fear of failure, it is also possible to find some who fear success. Their fear is based on raising the bar on future expectations of other projects.
Most students fear the possibility of getting a failing grade. They perceive that it is best to be considered able and lazy than unable to complete an assignment. They fear looking stupid.
An interesting side note: College students who procrastinate are usually more prone to drinking, smoking, insomnia and sickness such as colds and flu. Mental health professionals believe that abusing illegal substances is a response to the fear and anxiety they feel because of procrastination.
Criticism, disapproval and negative feedback compound to cause a delay in response. Procrastination saves us from being embarrassed if expectations of our performance are not realistic. This expands into fear and anxiety of possible rejection, being criticized and making mistakes. Some even fear losing freedom and put off committing to a project. Many often deny being afraid, since most of their fears are subconscious and not readily seen even by them.
Fear, anxiety and procrastination can all be handled and managed. It’s entirely your choice if you want to succeed or fail. Set realistic goals in small increments and cultivate a sense of self worth. Do not allow yourself to focus on your weaknesses. Most fears are unfounded and irrational. Realize you’re working against yourself, analyze them and move on. Ask yourself the real reason you’re afraid. Don’t lie to yourself. For some, exercise and deep breathing help.
There is no perfect time to begin. Mark Twain said, “Never put off until tomorrow what you can do day after tomorrow.” The important thing is to start. Educate yourself about the task you are about to dive into, and don’t forget to reward yourself for a job well done; in no time you will no longer suffer from those anxieties and fears.
About the author: Mary Morse travels frequently and knows how to get the best car rental UK rates. Search and compare India car rental rates in minutes. This unique system includes hundreds of car hire Cape Town Airport suppliers to help you find exactly what you’re loooking for.
Posted on: Tuesday, December 28, 2010 at 12:32 pm 
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