Why We Procrastinate – Traps and Solutions
Procrastination—it happens to all of us. Whether it’s tackling that overflowing storage room, setting up an efficient workspace, or finally taking the leap to start a professional organizing business, there’s always a reason to put it off. “I’ll get to it tomorrow,” sounds good—until tomorrow turns into next week.
More often than not, procrastination is a response to stress, uncertainty, or even loneliness. With the right strategies, breaking free from the cycle and taking action is absolutely possible.
Whether you’re a professional organizer, aspiring organizer, or simply someone trying to get more organized, understanding why procrastination happens—and how to move past it—can make all the difference.
Why Do We Procrastinate?
At its core, procrastination is a way of avoiding discomfort. If a task feels overwhelming, unpleasant, or unclear, the brain looks for an escape—checking emails, watching TV, or suddenly deciding to clean the kitchen instead of tackling the actual project at hand.
Some common reasons people procrastinate:
- Feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to start
- Fear of failure or wanting to do it perfectly the first time
- Viewing the task as tedious or unpleasant
- Lack of external motivation—some people need encouragement from others
- No clear deadline or structure
While avoiding a task may bring short-term relief, it often leads to more stress, anxiety, and frustration later on.
So how do you move past it?
How to Overcome Procrastination
1. The Buddy System: Motivation Through Connection
Some people thrive when they have external encouragement. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or a fellow professional organizer, having an accountability partner can be a game-changer.
A task buddy can:
Provide motivation and encouragement
Offer a sense of support and acceptance
Help accelerate productivity by keeping things on track
For organizers working with clients, promoting a “buddy system” can be a great way to help clients stay engaged and maintain progress long after your sessions are done.
2. Break It Down: Small Steps Lead to Big Wins
One of the biggest reasons people procrastinate is that the task feels too big to handle. Instead of thinking about completing the entire project, break it down into smaller, more manageable steps.
For example, instead of: “Organize the entire garage,” reframe it as:
Sort through one shelf today
Declutter tools tomorrow
Create labeled storage bins over the weekend
Smaller wins build momentum, making it easier to keep going.
3. Shift the Mindset: Done Is Better Than Perfect
Procrastination often stems from perfectionism. If the task can’t be done perfectly, it gets put off indefinitely. Instead, focus on progress over perfection.
Remind yourself (or your client): “This may not be your favorite task, but you will get through it.” Every step forward, no matter how small, is a success.
4. Schedule the Task (and Stick to It)
The phrase “I’ll do it later” is one of the biggest traps of procrastination. The best way to counteract this is to schedule a specific time to complete the task—just like you would with an important meeting or appointment.
Instead of “next week,” schedule a specific date and time
Block off realistic time chunks—short, focused sessions work best
Use a calendar, planner, or digital reminders to stay on track
Time-blocking creates accountability and structure, making it more likely that the task will actually get done.
5. Set a Timer: Just 15 Minutes
Getting started is often the hardest part. A simple yet powerful trick is to set a timer for just 15 minutes.
Anyone can focus for 15 minutes
Once started, motivation often kicks in to keep going
If not, at least some progress was made—and that’s a win
Short bursts of effort make even the most daunting tasks feel manageable.
6. Focus on the "Why" Behind the Task
Procrastination tends to disappear when the bigger picture is clear.
Ask:
Why does this task matter?
Will it reduce stress and anxiety?
Will it create a more functional space?
Will it help move your organizing business forward?
Having a strong, personal reason can shift perspective and provide the motivation needed to take action.
7. Use Music to Stay Focused
Music can be a powerful productivity tool. Studies show that the right background music can boost focus, reduce anxiety, and increase motivation.
If a task feels dull or overwhelming, playing a motivating playlist can make it easier to get through.
8. Take Breaks, But Stay Intentional
Trying to power through without breaks can lead to burnout and decision fatigue. Taking short, intentional breaks can actually improve focus and productivity.
Good break: A 5-minute stretch, deep breathing, or a quick walk
Not-so-good break: Scrolling social media for 45 minutes and losing momentum
Progress Over Perfection
Overcoming procrastination is about building momentum, creating structure, and making tasks feel manageable.
For those in the professional organizing field, helping clients move past procrastination is a key part of creating lasting change.
Whether you’re organizing for yourself, supporting a client, or looking to start an organizing business, the strategies above can help you take action and keep moving forward.
