11/06/2025
You’re not lazy. You’re avoiding a feeling.
That’s the truth behind procrastination. Especially for adults with ADHD, anxiety, or depression.
When your brain says, “I’ll do it later,” what it really means is, “I can’t handle this emotion right now.”
The emotion might be:
😰 Fear of failing
😩 Overwhelm
😔 Shame for being “behind”
😒 Boredom that feels unbearable
Here’s how to change the cycle 👇
1️⃣ Name it.
Pause and ask, “What am I feeling that I don’t want to feel right now?”
Awareness breaks the autopilot.
2️⃣ Defuse it.
Say: “I’m noticing the thought that I’ll fail.”
You’re separating yourself from the thought. That’s an ACT therapy skill called cognitive defusion.
3️⃣ Move toward what matters.
You don’t have to feel ready to act.
Ask, “What’s one small action that aligns with who I want to be right now?”
4️⃣ Treat compassion like fuel, not a reward.
You don’t earn kindness by doing better. You do better when you practice kindness.
Every time you act despite discomfort, you’re not just getting something done. You’re teaching your nervous system safety.
That’s real growth. 🌱
If you’re ready to stop the shame spiral and start understanding what your procrastination is really saying, therapy in The Woodlands, Texas can help you rebuild self-trust, motivation, and calm.