Good morning, my name is Yu, and I would like to attempt to break down this problem from two different perspectives.
It can be reasonably assumed that the majority of individuals find anxiety/is-the-emptiness-and-anxiety-of-a-graduate-student-in-pursuit-solely-caused-by-sheer-laziness-and-procrastination-8398.html" target="_blank">procrastination to be an undesirable practice. However, it is likely that many of them engage in it to some extent. This is because anxiety and procrastination often occur in conjunction with one another.
1. What are the underlying causes of this phenomenon?
1. It may be the case that we are afraid of failure. On numerous occasions, we are fearful that if we do not perform to an adequate standard, if the objectives of our plans cannot be met, our inadequacies and shortcomings will be revealed. In such instances, we may suffer criticism and accusations, and even face damage to our self-esteem.
Procrastination may be considered a defense mechanism against this kind of fear. By postponing action, one avoids the frustration of "not achieving it" or the self-reproach of "not being good enough." Thus, procrastination may be a subconscious choice.
As the questioner noted, procrastination also occurs at this juncture.
2. It may be a means of expressing resistance and aggression. Our childhood may have been characterized by severe disciplinary measures or excessive control exerted by our parents, which may contribute to anxiety in adulthood.
As children, we were powerless to resist our parents' control and could only obey, which resulted in a loss of our own space and freedom. Our vitality and emotions were also constrained. Anxiety and procrastination may be a disguised release of this energy, representing a disguised form of rebellion and attack.
As the questioner noted, I began engaging in activities that provided relaxation and distraction. However, I ultimately developed an addiction to gaming and other forms of entertainment.
3. It is also possible that our body and mind are experiencing fatigue and boredom. We are often reluctant to acknowledge this sensation, yet our actions often betray our true feelings.
Frequently, individuals become caught in a cycle of concern about making mistakes and the subsequent avoidance of action. This can result in feelings of fatigue, irritability, and a lack of motivation. As the original poster noted, this behavior can lead to a sense of time wasting and heightened anxiety, which can be seen as an "addiction."
2. Recommendations
1. It is essential to modify our mentality and relinquish our expectations of perfection. The success or failure of a task and a period of downturn will not have a significant impact on our lives. Life can be conceptualized as a long-distance race, and it is crucial to accept our own inadequacies and imperfections.
2. When establishing action plans and incremental objectives, it is advisable to ensure alignment with the SMART principle. This entails considering practical circumstances and objective factors. The decomposition of ambitious objectives into smaller, more manageable ones can enhance our perception of control and efficacy, providing a sense of empowerment and confidence, and fostering a sense of accomplishment. It is recommended to commence with the relatively straightforward tasks at hand, as achieving a breakthrough may potentially disrupt a cycle of inertia.
3. It is recommended that individuals engage in self-reward behaviors, such as treating themselves to a pleasant meal or purchasing a small gift, to enhance their well-being. By associating positive activities with positive emotions, individuals can establish a virtuous cycle of positive reinforcement.
4. It is also possible to seek assistance, given that the issue is causing distress and is therefore likely to be challenging to resolve immediately. It may be helpful to identify a family member or friend who can provide positive support and a listening ear. Should the need arise, it is also possible to seek the guidance of a counselor, as confronting and accepting the underlying issues is a crucial step in gradually overcoming the negative thoughts.
Additionally, one may endeavor to enhance their intrinsic worth and ascertain their distinctive value. When one's fundamental self is robust, they are better equipped to demonstrate self-assurance.
It is recommended that the reader consult the following text: "Where Does Strength Come From?"
Comments
I understand how you feel, and it's important to address the anxiety first. Try setting small, manageable goals for yourself and celebrate each achievement. This can gradually build your confidence and reduce anxiety.
Breaking the cycle requires acknowledging that it's okay to feel overwhelmed. Start by incorporating short breaks into your schedule specifically for relaxation, not as a way to avoid tasks. Balance is key here.
It sounds like a tough cycle to be in. One approach could be to seek support from friends or professionals who can provide guidance. Also, try mindfulness exercises which can help manage anxiety without leading to distractions.
Facing these feelings headon might be challenging but rewarding. Consider using a planner to organize tasks, breaking them into tiny steps. This method can make starting easier and procrastination less likely.