Psychology of Procrastination: Why We Put Things Off
Why do we procrastinate, even when we know it will make things harder in the long run? Is it laziness, a lack of discipline, or something deeper? In this episode ofThe Psychology of Us with Professor RJ Starr, we break down the real science behind procrastination and explore why we put things off—even when we don’t want to.
Professor Starr takes you inside the brain to reveal the psychological and neurological factors at play, from the amygdala’s fear response to the prefrontal cortex’s struggle to prioritize long-term rewards. You’ll learn how procrastination is actually an issue of emotional regulation, not a lack of willpower. We’ll explore key psychological theories, includingtemporal discounting,task aversion, andthe limbic system hijack, as well as real-life case studies that illustrate why so many people struggle to take action.
This episode also uncovers the hidden role of perfectionism, self-doubt, and fear of failure in fueling procrastination. Why do high-achieving individuals often struggle with putting things off? What happens in the brain when we choose short-term pleasure over long-term success? And most importantly, how can we change these patterns?
Professor Starr provides practical, science-backed strategies for overcoming procrastination, includingtime chunking,implementation intentions,self-compassion techniques, andhabit restructuring. You’ll also learn how small mindset shifts—like reframing tasks and recognizing the emotions behind procrastination—can dramatically improve productivity and motivation.
If you’ve ever found yourself delaying a task, dreading a deadline, or struggling to follow through on your goals, this episode is for you. By the end, you’ll not only understandwhy you procrastinate but also walk away with clear, actionable tools to help you break the cycle.
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