One of the main causes of procrastination is perfectionism. 

I was recently awoken to the perspective that perfectionists are procrastinators. I’ve been through various phases of perfectionism and “recovering perfectionism” throughout my life. However, I’d never identified as a “procrastinator” (read: lazy). Yet I realized this was actually very true. And with that I’ve really started to do a lot of work around unpacking my personal relationship with procrastination.

Anxiety can contribute to perfectionism, perhaps due to a related fear of failure or fear or criticism, and can prevent getting started on a project. This can be perceived as laziness. However, my fellow perfectionist procrastinators can probably attest to feeling highly motivated when they are confident in the task and the outcome.

I’ve recognized the importance of a my perspective has shifted to progress not perfection. When things seem overwhelming, my mantra has become “focus on the very next step.” Breaking larger tasks down into smaller, achievable steps has made a huge difference for me in working to overcome my perfection paralysis. 

Let’s be honest, after being in business for over one year I finally have a published website. And while it may not be perfect, it’s progress to be proud of!