Procrastination Is How We Control Our Lives

Question: (I'm an adult with A.D.D)  I have trouble doing what I know needs to be done, but if something arises that is more urgent that I want to do even less, I have no problem doing the first thing.  I was wondering how I might be able to use this principle somehow in my self talk/thinking so that I could do what really needs to be done more often.

Answer:  There are many philosophical and psychological theories regarding procrastination. What I have uncovered with my clients suffering with procrastination is that it's all about control. When we are obligated to do something...the best way we can control it is to procrastinate! It's not that you have trouble doing the task, it's that you need to control what's going on in your life. When we feel out of control with our thoughts and emotions, we unconsciously begin to control everything else around us. So when we can't control our thoughts and feelings, we control our tasks and obligations. It may be time for you to consider what feels out of control for you right now... Maybe a relationship, or your eating habits, or some other vice like smoking or drinking?

It is better to conquer yourself than to win a thousand battles. Then the victory is yours. It cannot be taken from you, not by angels or by demons, heaven or hell. - Buddha