Is self-care really just procrastination in disguise?
Procrastination and self-care are two concepts that are often discussed, but they can sometimes be misunderstood or used as excuses for not getting things done.
Pause for a moment; how many times have you looked up at the end of a day and realised you still need to complete a high-value task? How often have you talked yourself out of a tricky project because you tell yourself self-care is more important?
Understanding the difference between the two is essential to ensure you care for yourself and your responsibilities in a healthy and balanced way.
Procrastination is the act of delaying or postponing tasks or activities that need to be done. Various factors, including a lack of motivation, a lack of focus, or a lack of time management skills, can cause it. Procrastination can lead to negative consequences, such as missed deadlines, increased stress, and a sense of guilt or shame.
Self-care, on the other hand, is the practice of taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It can include activities like exercise, meditation, getting enough sleep, and taking breaks to relax and recharge. Self-care is vital because it helps you maintain your overall health and well-being and improves your productivity and effectiveness in your personal and professional life.
So, how can you tell the difference between procrastination and self-care? Here are a few tips:
• Consider your intentions: Are you delaying tasks because you don’t want to do them and self-sabotaging, or are you taking breaks to recharge and refocus? If you are procrastinating, you may feel a sense of avoidance or resistance to the tasks at hand. If you are engaging in self-care, you may feel a sense of renewal and rejuvenation after taking a break.
• Think about the long-term consequences: Procrastination can have negative consequences in the long run, such as missed opportunities or damage to your reputation. Self-care, however, can have positive long-term effects, such as improved health and well-being and increased productivity.
• Set boundaries: It’s essential to set boundaries for yourself and ensure you are not overloading yourself with too many tasks or responsibilities. Engaging in self-care can help you maintain a healthy balance and prevent burnout. Break your goals down into small doable steps to help you get going.
In summary, procrastination and self-care are two different things. Procrastination can harm your productivity and well-being, while self-care is essential for maintaining your overall health and well-being.
By understanding the difference between the two, you can make sure you are taking care of yourself and your responsibilities in a healthy and balanced way.
What tasks have you been putting off by procrastinating?
Where do you need to self-care more, and what looks like good self-care for you?
If you’re ready to take your seat at the table, book a 30-minute discovery session here – We have a new table of events planned for 2023, we’d love to see if we’re a great fit for you and your growth in 2023.