Why We Procrastinate; A Traumatic Connection
If we want to solve a problem, make a change, or build a new path for ourselves, it’s helpful to understand how things work, why they’re happening, and what may be inspiring the resistance to change. Sometimes, this understanding can accelerate our reinvention so much, it feels as though we can’t “pace” ourselves.
Procrastination itself is not a trauma bond, but it can be a behavior resulting from trauma or emotional difficulties. Trauma bonds typically refer to unhealthy emotional attachments formed in abusive or traumatic relationships. Procrastination, on the other hand, is the act of avoiding tasks or responsibilities and delaying action.
However, in some cases, people who have experienced trauma may use procrastination as a coping mechanism. They might avoid certain tasks due to fear of failure, anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed by the memories associated with the task. In this sense, procrastination can be a manifestation of unresolved emotional issues related to trauma. It's essential to address the root causes of procrastination if trauma is involved, and seeking support from a mental health professional can be beneficial. There are various examples of trauma that can contribute to procrastination in individuals. Some of these traumas include:
1. Childhood Abuse: Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse experienced during childhood can lead to feelings of powerlessness and low self-esteem, making it difficult to tackle tasks as an adult.
2. Neglect: Growing up in an environment where emotional or physical needs were not met can result in a lack of motivation and difficulty in initiating tasks.
3. Loss of a Loved One: The death of a close family member or friend can lead to grief and depression, which may cause someone to avoid responsibilities.
4. Bullying: Past experiences of bullying or harassment can create anxiety and fear, making it challenging to engage in certain tasks or social interactions.
5. Serious Illness or Injury: Coping with a severe illness or injury can be emotionally draining and overwhelming, causing procrastination in other aspects of life.
6. Academic or Work-related Stress: High-pressure academic environments or stressful work conditions can lead to procrastination as a way to cope with the pressure and avoid potential failure.
7. Relationship Breakup: Going through a difficult breakup or divorce can lead to emotional distress, affecting one's ability to focus on tasks.
8. Natural Disasters or Traumatic Events: Surviving a natural disaster or being involved in a traumatic event can leave lasting emotional scars, leading to procrastination as a way to cope with the distress.
It's important to remember that each individual's response to trauma is unique, and not everyone who experiences trauma will necessarily exhibit procrastination. Some people may respond differently, such as becoming hyper-focused on tasks as a way to cope. If procrastination becomes a persistent issue and interferes with daily functioning, seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor can be beneficial in addressing the underlying trauma and its impact on behavior.