So I am normal!!! Thank you so so much. This is my biggest problem. Really thought I was a failure at completing jobs but I feel I cannot do it perfectly or have time to do it perfectly so what's the point of starting at all. This is the best. A real eye opener. ❤❤
I am definitely a perfect-inator. I wish someone would have helped me get a handle on it when I was young, since it has caused me no end of grief in my school, work, and personal life. Part of it, too, is that I tend to think 20 steps ahead when trying to complete a big project, and my brain short-circuits from the overload.
Yup! I'm trying to figure out all the steps before I start, fear it won't be the best way, or I'll miss a critical step along the way and... to procrastinate becomes less stressful. For sure, I'll figure it out tomorrow or next week 😬
Cas….how did I not know you had a podcast channel? I didn’t even know! I’ve been watching you forever! Oh my gosh - daughter did the same thing twice this year with a long term project. I could feel her pain so much I was crying!! Flashbacks of my own school days!! Heartbreaking to watch!! Yes I have adhd yes she does also. So much stress to ourselves!! Why do we do this!! Yes you’re bang on her Cas!! ❤
This video was so freeing for me. Procrastination has LITERALLY ruined my life in so many ways. I'm currently sitting in the consequences of it. It was very healing to learn that I can overcome this. Thank you ❤
Cass! I HAVE TO tell you about my big victory today! I mentioned in another comment about how I've been living out of my laundry room like a gigantic clean laundry basket... Anyway, a side benefit from that is that I have been able to re-string the drawstring back into 3 different pairs of scrub pants because both the string, the matching pants & a safety pin were all in my hands at the same time. They are 3 scrub pants that I haven't been able to wear in more than 2 years... One pair are a beautiful mint green that were worn once and they came out of the washer "unstrung." They might have even be pre-covid so when I tell you I'm ecstatic about it I totally mean it! You are so right about the dopamine hit! Thank YOU! :) Heather xo
Spot on with this podcast! I started seeing the progress of getting the dopamine hit every time I did 1 small step. I ended up organizing my office, files and taxes! So thank you!
Well said, Cas! I often listen to you while I do my evening daily chores--I call them my "Late 15"--and tonight's topic was one I really needed. Also, as I listened my bee brain pondered why I prefer your channel to many other's. My conclusion is its the combination of your focus with the day's content, your vocal qualities (especially tempo), your humor, and that your podcasts give me a bit of a dopamine hit as I go to bed with my kitchen all set for a luxurious startfor tomorrow with time for coffee and reading. Thank you so much! 🎉 😊
I picked up the hot spots in my house while listening to this podcast. I've still put off changing light bulbs, but I'm going to do the ones I can reach, then ask for help.
I never thought of it this way. I've received the dopamine hit from decluttering, but never thought of it helping me in other areas of my life! THANK YOU ❤ I'm excited to practice this immediately! 🥰
Thank you so much, this makes so much sense! I am a little bit of a procrastinator. I’ve always told myself “I work best under pressure”. But recently I’ve realized it’s a lot less stressful if I start a project as soon as I need to, even if I don’t finish. If I make progress I do feel better.
Great pod…I am sure I am addicted to procrastination and like your Izzy…am a perfectionist to the point that I become paralyzed. I’m getting better…but whew…that fear of failure is huge!
Came here for some healthy "crack". I definitely procrastinate because of fear and anxiety but also because I don't necessarily have the energy to complete the task. Breaking down a project is a good solution.
Came here because I'm procrastinating filling out a job application--even though getting the job would mean a higher salary, more benefits, and getting to actually work in my field of employment--but there's also a chance I could be miserable in a new situation (yay anxiety!). Stress and posssible ADHD don't help--but in listening to this, I thought of a few small things I could start with--changes I know I want to make from previous applications--and hopefully that start will help me "get addicted" to that feeling of accomplishment so I can finish and move on with my life 😊
This is so helpful!! I remember often doing school projects at the last minute, and then telling myself "well, that's the best I could do in that amount of time", which somehow released me from being responsible for the situation. Thanks so much for explaining this!!
Thank you, your video was very helpful! Do want to add that over time, procrastination can lead to depression which causes more procrastination. You are so right about breaking tasks down into smaller tasks/steps and doing them. This can also help people to overcome depression, increasing emotional/mental energy to do more and to reach out to others socially.
I saw the title to this podcast on Sunday and thought, "I'll watch it later. I'm tired from my trip." I saw it again yesterday and thought, "I'm busy today, maybe tomorrow" (I actually watched crafting videos, instead 🙄). I finally watched and realized my problem was that I didn't WANT to know WHY!! 🤦♀ Your explanations really struck a chord in MY brain! Thank you so much for this!! I've been using a timer for many years (a Flylady trick from decades ago) but I still avoid things until the last minute. It turns out, I needed someone to break it down for me, Barney-style! 💯👏💖
Cas, you are so awesome. Thank you for helping us understand us. We need to unaddict ourselves from procrastination, and get addicted to progress!!! Good wisdom right there!
OMG Cas…..THANK YOU. I’m a Bee all my life (66). I have felt I just wasn’t good enough, I was born without “something”. Then I found you and you started things moving for me. Then I added Dawn, Simple Happy Zen, and then I branched out to others and in a sort time I found MY JOY!!! I look at things differently. I pass your videos, and others on to family and friends that really Need this info. I seek to help others (my children) to grown past what you “Thought” was your issues. I Wish I could just hug you. Just typing this I feel the tears of gratitude. Besides all of that, you make me giggle….. I’m so happy to be a Bee…even if I have to take things slower because of physical issues…it doesn’t matter I am making… LOVE YOU
Cas I hate this episode because it’s so true. 😂❤ Love you - thanks for the tough love! This is very helpful for the fellow ADHD’er. There is such wisdom here!
This is the best video I have watched about procrastination. Thank you so, so much. I haven't felt this hopeful in a long time. I burnt out after several hard years of me earning my bachelors in a competitive major, working full time, commuting a lot, and managing abusive environments while I worked towards moving out. I also have CPTSD and I'm in the process of getting an ADHD diagnosis. I've been jobless for months and I have been so mean to myself. My confidence is shot, I'm constantly on edge even when I'm doing something relaxing, and my negative self-talk is the worst it's ever been. Perfectionism is a contributing factor to my procrastination and sometimes doing the things I should be doing - the things that would make me happy and greatly benefit my life - don't feel worthwhile because I'm not "ready" or "good enough". The idea of failing when I feel this low about myself is scary. Procrastination has become a process addiction. I stress about the things I should be doing, ride the worry train, tell myself I will do it later, and get a dopamine hit from the avoidance - then repeat! Just like you described! But your video is so concise and gentle. You make me feel like my addiction to procrastination can improve with work, and that work can start small. I miss the feeling of how easy it used to be to get the ball rolling. I pushed myself through college all on my own in every aspect and I felt so confident in myself. I'd love to rediscover that person.
I have avoidance behavior and usually will gravitate to the kitchen and bake. I have a fear of success and the demands that that potentially will put on me and the new things that will be expected of me as a result of success. I do have ADHD, and procrastinate a bit, but I don't procrastinate what is important to do--it occurs when the task is something I want done, and it's not important to my husband or family to do (although they may appreciate it being done and that they didn't have to do it.) Paradoxically, I feel so good when I just get in there and do it (weed the flower beds, write that letter, respond to an email, paint the room, etc.).
Everytime I watch your videos it feels like you are talking straight to me. All the feelings, ethics, anxiety and everything else you say is my life. It drives my husband nuts but it does me too. He is a mental health therapist lol. He's good at his job and loves it. I'm disabled and sometimes if breathing wasn't involuntary, I wouldn't do it.
Always a struggle for me, but especially now. I am finally feeling better but I developed habits I now need to change after 2 1/2 years of recovery from illness that left me bedridden. The discipline to push through low energy is a battle.
My son & I have never laughed so hard as we have watching your funny stories at the end of your videos. Sometimes we fast forward to the story and watch it a few times. Thank you🎉
This resonates so much. My hack for laundry is the only way I can get through it. I hang dry most of my clothes and I absolutely loathe this task. I only hang five items at a time then take a break. It might take me two hours but it’s much less overwhelming 😂
This is the best approach to procrastination I have heard yet. I have some experience of it working and am encouraged to keep going this way. I have a stressful job and stressful home life and to much to do and am completely overwhelmed. I have recently learned to drop the bar and am able to do a few manageable things rather than worrying about all that I can’t not get done. Thank you ❤
Wow! Great explanation about why I choose to sit down and read instead of doing my chores. I ENJOY reading. I don't enjoy chores. While I already understood that concept, I never realized that putting off something that I don't want to do also brings me relief in the moment. That feeling of relief makes me feel less burdened at the time. I've been feeling overburdened, making me seek ways to put things off. But then I feel terrible for not getting them done. The temporary relief does not remove my burden. I must work through it by tackling the things that need done!
I agree and can relate to this 100%. I definitely have avoidance behavior which leads to procrastinating. I'll even sabotage my health so that i get the excuse to lay down. For example, i will drink 2 strong coffees which gives me really bad acid reflux so then i feel like crap so I need to lay down or sit up and feel so yucky that i think i physically can't be productive. I also get so worked up that i have up take an anxiety pill which makes me tired and want to take a nap. I usually take naps up avoid chores as well. This causes tension in my marriage because my husband has to overfunction for me and not a good example for my kids. This guilt and shame also leads me to not want to shop for fun clothes or home decorations because I don't feel like I deserve it. I have so much guilt but this video validates my thought process and gives me hope.
I can SO relate to your daughter, that was exactly me all the way through school. I grew up with undiagnosed ADHD & ASD & remember even back in primary school thinking "I wish there was a machine I could just speak into & it would write/type it out for me. I would do so well if I could only get my thoughts onto paper..." It's so great that that technology is available now!
I’m cracking up right now because I’m in the middle of transferring a book about procrastination to my phone as I see this video and ands it to my watch later list 😂😂😂😂😂 perfect timing!! ❤ can’t wait to watch this! Love you Cas!
Absolutely -nail-on-the-head! First learned from the Fly Lady-Baby Steps. But you take it much further by giving ADD folks permission, freedom and tools to succeed! I love how you present the information. I'm slowly becoming less anxious about major decluttering ahead by tackling small areas first and taking small bites out of the big areas -like the BASEMENT! And thank you so much for the Planning forms to download. Great ideas!
Hey Cas. Given the hereditary nature of ADHD and your own diagnosis there is a reasonable likelihood your daughter has it too. Initiating activities and directing focus towards activities that don't excite them can be near on impossible for some with untreated ADHD. Recognising that this may be a significant part of her 'procrastinating' is important...and that seeking professional help to help her manage ADHD may be necessary and is definately worth exploring. You certainly come across as someone with ADHD who has found very effective ways to modify your life to ensure you can get lots of stuff done but Issy may need extra help to get to that point...body doubling or helping her get started may help her get the ball rolling but don't forget professional help too.. Best wishes for both you and her.
Thank you Cass, this was very helpful 😮 I didn't realize any of this, but you're TOTALLY CORRECT, and that's what was going on with me. Now I have a starting place
I’m such a procrastinator that when I saw this video come out, I saved it to my “Watch Later” folder. 😊 -then… it took me a month to get to it!!! 😅 This video is just what I needed to hear!!
I've listened to this when it came out, I know because of the 👍 but I decided to listen to it again. I mean, it has my ''middle'' name in the title. I know the science behind it, but this is the first time I understood how to work my way out of this bad behavior. I wrote : stop procrastinating! Do it for 5 minutes! On a few post-it notes and spread them around my home; so the training begins! I used to be a messy cricket before I got addicted to organization and order, hopefully this is what I need to get addicted to progress!
Thank you so much Cass I really appreciate your ongoing help and energy that you put in your videos I feel motivated every time I listen to you again thank you
What a wonderful Podcast, thank you so much. It is really nice to understand that I am not destined to live as a lazy slob. Decluttering my house has changed my life, and now I know why it is making me so happy. It's worth more than money... it's a wonderful high, the pride I get at looking the results. Excellent explanation, thank you. I am going to grab a trash bag and get busy.
You're amazing! I've had this issue for as long as I can remember. Thank you for giving me a new perspective and ideas that I can use to improve. I hope that you know that you've changed my life since I've been following you 👀 in so many ways. ❤ I'm grateful for you 🤗
The best talk I've heard in a long time! I needed this, Cas. It ties in with a few other angles in my earlier life. Blessings to you and your daughter. I am tossing around the question whether a mum who is very stressed in pregnancy, her emotions regustering with her unborn whose dopamine gets depressed and then the growing child for seemingly 'no reason at all' is racing towards self-medication.... ? From prayer ministry training (and from my own self) I definitely know that certain things are oassed on in utero... 'Perfectionism, procrastination or stress.... great to remember. Thank you for teaching how to mske inroads.... Invaluable. Bless you Cas. G Ire G Ire
WOW! This podcast stopped me in my tracks. I'm a chronic procrastinator for all the reasons (and more) you mention. I had NO IDEA about the dopamine effect but it makes so much sense. Your podcast has given me hope. Another podcast exploring more ways to get over these dopamine hungry brain blockers would be very welcome. I'm thinking that "people" projects vs "stuff" projects vs "task" projects may all need a slightly different mindset. Hmmm, bit overwhelmed already, I think I'll have a cup of tea and a slice of dopamine!! Thanks Cas.
Wow! Completely eye-opening. You could have been talking about my 17yr old daughter. Identical. Grade 12 was brutal for her even though she's a genius (and yes, perfectionist). This helped me as well. Both my daughter and I thought the dopamine hit was from the stress but that didn't make sense. It's from the short relief of the procrastination. Wow! I wish I knew this one year ago! I'm your age exactly and I know I procrastinate but also my life is too crazy to do so so I've definitely retrained myself somewhat. But it's hard. But I relate to my daughter in a way my husband can't.
That part about speech-to-text reminded me of that old story. I was at the 2nd year of the university and had to submit a paper. I knew the theme well, but I struggled a lot with the main idea of the paper, like the storyline I must unfold. One warm spring day I spent about three hours trying to type just something useful, and had no luck, so I turned my computer off and went home. While I was walking I started quietly talking to myself about the paper problem, like giving an imaginary lection. And in about half an hour I found out and spoke out the whooooole storyline, and composed the most important parts of paper itself. And it was witty, logical and fresh. And as soon as I got home, took my coat and shoes off, I forgot all of it. Completely and forever. My brain made a good joke on me.
I’m currently reading ‘Tiny Habits” by BJ FOGG. It talks about changing behaviors like procrastination one little step at a time with a behavior model that includes prompt, ability, & motivation. Actually complementary to this podcast. The approach also notes that we don’t need to beat ourselves up over it but finding the why, we aren’t doing what we really want/need to do. Hope that makes sense lol anyway Really enjoyed this post! Thank you!
No it's not. It's avoidance behavior. We procrastinate when we are overloaded with life and need a brain break. It's a defense mechanism to avoid mentally taxing tasks. Perfectionism is a whole other thing.
This was fascinating and incredibly informative! I am just floored at how much I learn from you day after day! You absolutely nailed me on this one! I had no idea you could be addicted to procrastinating! I have all the things; ADHD, perfectionism, and high stress and I even procrastinate on things I Like to do. 🙄 This was just so helpful for explaining WHY I do stupid stuff like that. Thank you so much for this. I think this will help me take steps to get out of the “bad” dopamine addiction and move towards the “good” one!
The book Bird by Bird comes to mind, by Anne Lamott. That last minute assignment. Aw. I feel for your daughter. Thanks for offering solutions vs. just adding or supporting categories that make us feel bad. Oh the Shame LOL.
So glad to hear that your daughter was able to make progress. I have have ADHD and when I was is school and given a huge assignment, sometimes I could see how to break it down into different steps. I would need to talk out the process with someone, and write the different steps down in order to know what was involved and to keep track of my progress. I know everyone with ADHD has different coping skills but maybe that approach would be beneficial to your daughter as well. Hope it all goes well with her project and she feels good about what she has accomplished. 😊
This is so interesting. I procrastinate worse than anyone I've ever known. It's always rooted in either some fear or anxiety, or for the physical things a of lack of energy/ motivation. You mentioned addiction, I'm also an addict. Sober for 7 years now. I also often wonder if i have adhd. Anyway Here are some top examples of my procrastinating habits: Haven't been to a doctor of any kind in 8 years, even though i have symptoms daily that signal my organs are failing. I just keep saying I'll call tomorrow. Even though i feel terrible all the time. Just scared of actually doing it... Another example. Haven't talked to my dad in 14 years. I always say I'm going to call him. Then i don't. (Although i did send him a birthday card recently so that was a step in the right direction) it's not that i don't want to, I'm just nervous about how it will go. But i also know that one day i wont have the chance so i always think why cant i just do the things i know i should be doing!!!!! It's so frustrating. I'm also late to everything. Every single thing. I feel like I'm at my wits end, with myself. 😤 And i try to do things, set goals, make lists, set four thousand alarms and reminders. (I forget everything if not reminded, that one i've realized I really can't help!) Nothing keeps me accountable. 🤦♀️
Pick ONE thing and do it first thing in the morning. (I'm the one to talk - I also procrastinate a lot!). But sometimes this works for me. When I pick one thing and do it immediately in the morning. I hate making calls as well. You can do it - your health is worth it - you are worth it!
Anxiety and fear are big reasons for procrastinating! What is the WORST thing that would happen if you called your Dad right this minute? What is the WORST thing about that worst thing? Sometimes walking the fear all the way down to the end helps it not seem so scary anymore.
Great podcast! Came at a perfect time too. Been feeling in a slump. Ive been working toward getting rid of my perfection procrastination since winter and the last few weeks have felt like ive taken a few steps back. Really enjoyed the science behind it! ❤❤❤
Cas! TY! When you said taking the medication like for my spine it brings me a great deal of dopermine! But when I don’t have it, I’m completely down and stuck in quicksand! Ty sincerely Linda
Love the idea you gave your daughter. I'm going to tell my daughter to do that as she's the same way. My daughter is in grade 11 as well and her name is Izzy too😊
Love this, I get frozen and procrastinate because I’m not sure how to do something.
This is the best explanation I ever heard about procrastination,thank you!
Brilliant! Genius!!!!!!!
Am about to post the very same comment, Anastasia! G Ire
I agree.
So I am normal!!! Thank you so so much. This is my biggest problem. Really thought I was a failure at completing jobs but I feel I cannot do it perfectly or have time to do it perfectly so what's the point of starting at all. This is the best. A real eye opener. ❤❤
AGREE
I am definitely a perfect-inator. I wish someone would have helped me get a handle on it when I was young, since it has caused me no end of grief in my school, work, and personal life. Part of it, too, is that I tend to think 20 steps ahead when trying to complete a big project, and my brain short-circuits from the overload.
Same here. 💯
Yup! I'm trying to figure out all the steps before I start, fear it won't be the best way, or I'll miss a critical step along the way and... to procrastinate becomes less stressful. For sure, I'll figure it out tomorrow or next week 😬
I could listen to you all day. You bring so much peace to such a stressful topic.
Cas….how did I not know you had a podcast channel? I didn’t even know! I’ve been watching you forever!
Oh my gosh - daughter did the same thing twice this year with a long term project. I could feel her pain so much I was crying!! Flashbacks of my own school days!! Heartbreaking to watch!! Yes I have adhd yes she does also. So much stress to ourselves!! Why do we do this!! Yes you’re bang on her Cas!! ❤
@@Angebaby1237😂q
I can totally relate when you said your daughter would rather fail from not trying than fail while trying. That feels like what I have been doing.
This video was so freeing for me. Procrastination has LITERALLY ruined my life in so many ways. I'm currently sitting in the consequences of it. It was very healing to learn that I can overcome this. Thank you ❤
Cass! I HAVE TO tell you about my big victory today! I mentioned in another comment about how I've been living out of my laundry room like a gigantic clean laundry basket... Anyway, a side benefit from that is that I have been able to re-string the drawstring back into 3 different pairs of scrub pants because both the string, the matching pants & a safety pin were all in my hands at the same time. They are 3 scrub pants that I haven't been able to wear in more than 2 years... One pair are a beautiful mint green that were worn once and they came out of the washer "unstrung." They might have even be pre-covid so when I tell you I'm ecstatic about it I totally mean it! You are so right about the dopamine hit! Thank YOU! :) Heather xo
Spot on with this podcast! I started seeing the progress of getting the dopamine hit every time I did 1 small step. I ended up organizing my office, files and taxes! So thank you!
Great ADHD hack!! You explained procrastination and the solution so well. It's not often that I hear ADHD advice that actually works.
Well said, Cas! I often listen to you while I do my evening daily chores--I call them my "Late 15"--and tonight's topic was one I really needed.
Also, as I listened my bee brain pondered why I prefer your channel to many other's. My conclusion is its the combination of your focus with the day's content, your vocal qualities (especially tempo), your humor, and that your podcasts give me a bit of a dopamine hit as I go to bed with my kitchen all set for a luxurious startfor tomorrow with time for coffee and reading. Thank you so much! 🎉 😊
I picked up the hot spots in my house while listening to this podcast. I've still put off changing light bulbs, but I'm going to do the ones I can reach, then ask for help.
Wow! I think that explanation helped more than 15 years of therapy! Thanks!! ❤ God bless you!!
I never thought of it this way. I've received the dopamine hit from decluttering, but never thought of it helping me in other areas of my life! THANK YOU ❤ I'm excited to practice this immediately! 🥰
Wow, how interesting! Never looked at it like this!
This one makes me even more excited for your collab with How to ADHD!!
omg has this been discussed?! two of my fav creators that have helped me improve my quality of life?! 🥹
@@Ghost-lt4sfCas said she wants to. Not sure where it's at in the process.
Thank you so much, this makes so much sense! I am a little bit of a procrastinator. I’ve always told myself “I work best under pressure”. But recently I’ve realized it’s a lot less stressful if I start a project as soon as I need to, even if I don’t finish. If I make progress I do feel better.
Great pod…I am sure I am addicted to procrastination and like your Izzy…am a perfectionist to the point that I become paralyzed. I’m getting better…but whew…that fear of failure is huge!
Thank you Cas. I can always relate to what you say and you help so much. ❤
Came here for some healthy "crack". I definitely procrastinate because of fear and anxiety but also because I don't necessarily have the energy to complete the task. Breaking down a project is a good solution.
Came here because I'm procrastinating filling out a job application--even though getting the job would mean a higher salary, more benefits, and getting to actually work in my field of employment--but there's also a chance I could be miserable in a new situation (yay anxiety!). Stress and posssible ADHD don't help--but in listening to this, I thought of a few small things I could start with--changes I know I want to make from previous applications--and hopefully that start will help me "get addicted" to that feeling of accomplishment so I can finish and move on with my life 😊
This is so helpful!! I remember often doing school projects at the last minute, and then telling myself "well, that's the best I could do in that amount of time", which somehow released me from being responsible for the situation. Thanks so much for explaining this!!
😭 This explanation was the sweet spot for reasons, types, and solutions! THANK YOU! 🙏
Thank you, your video was very helpful! Do want to add that over time, procrastination can lead to depression which causes more procrastination. You are so right about breaking tasks down into smaller tasks/steps and doing them. This can also help people to overcome depression, increasing emotional/mental energy to do more and to reach out to others socially.
I saw the title to this podcast on Sunday and thought, "I'll watch it later. I'm tired from my trip." I saw it again yesterday and thought, "I'm busy today, maybe tomorrow" (I actually watched crafting videos, instead 🙄). I finally watched and realized my problem was that I didn't WANT to know WHY!! 🤦♀ Your explanations really struck a chord in MY brain! Thank you so much for this!! I've been using a timer for many years (a Flylady trick from decades ago) but I still avoid things until the last minute. It turns out, I needed someone to break it down for me, Barney-style! 💯👏💖
You always inspire and entertain me. Thank you. This helps a lot.
After my mom died, I put off even super important things, for months. I was just so mentally/emotionally exhausted, I had no fuel to act.
I can understand that! You were depleted.
My ADD brain needed this today. Thank you!!! ❤
Excellent presentation of a very common, frustrating problem. Please do more like this. ❤
Cas, you are so awesome. Thank you for helping us understand us.
We need to unaddict ourselves from procrastination, and get addicted to progress!!! Good wisdom right there!
OMG Cas…..THANK YOU. I’m a Bee all my life (66). I have felt I just wasn’t good enough, I was born without “something”. Then I found you and you started things moving for me. Then I added Dawn, Simple Happy Zen, and then I branched out to others and in a sort time I found MY JOY!!! I look at things differently. I pass your videos, and others on to family and friends that really Need this info. I seek to help others (my children) to grown past what you “Thought” was your issues. I Wish I could just hug you. Just typing this I feel the tears of gratitude. Besides all of that, you make me giggle….. I’m so happy to be a Bee…even if I have to take things slower because of physical issues…it doesn’t matter I am making… LOVE YOU
Cas I hate this episode because it’s so true. 😂❤
Love you - thanks for the tough love!
This is very helpful for the fellow ADHD’er. There is such wisdom here!
I was going to watch this video earlier, but I put it off.😅
Thank you for this video, i definitely needed to hear this!
4:00 I once read a saying: Wisdom does now what it will be satisfied with later.
This is the best video I have watched about procrastination. Thank you so, so much. I haven't felt this hopeful in a long time.
I burnt out after several hard years of me earning my bachelors in a competitive major, working full time, commuting a lot, and managing abusive environments while I worked towards moving out. I also have CPTSD and I'm in the process of getting an ADHD diagnosis. I've been jobless for months and I have been so mean to myself. My confidence is shot, I'm constantly on edge even when I'm doing something relaxing, and my negative self-talk is the worst it's ever been. Perfectionism is a contributing factor to my procrastination and sometimes doing the things I should be doing - the things that would make me happy and greatly benefit my life - don't feel worthwhile because I'm not "ready" or "good enough". The idea of failing when I feel this low about myself is scary.
Procrastination has become a process addiction. I stress about the things I should be doing, ride the worry train, tell myself I will do it later, and get a dopamine hit from the avoidance - then repeat! Just like you described!
But your video is so concise and gentle. You make me feel like my addiction to procrastination can improve with work, and that work can start small. I miss the feeling of how easy it used to be to get the ball rolling. I pushed myself through college all on my own in every aspect and I felt so confident in myself. I'd love to rediscover that person.
I have avoidance behavior and usually will gravitate to the kitchen and bake. I have a fear of success and the demands that that potentially will put on me and the new things that will be expected of me as a result of success. I do have ADHD, and procrastinate a bit, but I don't procrastinate what is important to do--it occurs when the task is something I want done, and it's not important to my husband or family to do (although they may appreciate it being done and that they didn't have to do it.) Paradoxically, I feel so good when I just get in there and do it (weed the flower beds, write that letter, respond to an email, paint the room, etc.).
Everytime I watch your videos it feels like you are talking straight to me. All the feelings, ethics, anxiety and everything else you say is my life. It drives my husband nuts but it does me too. He is a mental health therapist lol. He's good at his job and loves it. I'm disabled and sometimes if breathing wasn't involuntary, I wouldn't do it.
Always a struggle for me, but especially now. I am finally feeling better but I developed habits I now need to change after 2 1/2 years of recovery from illness that left me bedridden. The discipline to push through low energy is a battle.
My son & I have never laughed so hard as we have watching your funny stories at the end of your videos. Sometimes we fast forward to the story and watch it a few times. Thank you🎉
This resonates so much. My hack for laundry is the only way I can get through it. I hang dry most of my clothes and I absolutely loathe this task. I only hang five items at a time then take a break. It might take me two hours but it’s much less overwhelming 😂
Your words and explanations have been wonderful!!!! Thanks for the seminar. 👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿
This is excellent!! Love the new way of looking at things and the dopamine hit, all of it! So helpful. Thank you!!!
I have a silly little way I stop procrastinating. I ask myself what would Elle Woods do? 😂
Excellent podcast to really get me thinking. I’ve really enjoyed reading the other comments too. You’ve definitely hit on something here.
This is the best approach to procrastination I have heard yet. I have some experience of it working and am encouraged to keep going this way. I have a stressful job and stressful home life and to much to do and am completely overwhelmed. I have recently learned to drop the bar and am able to do a few manageable things rather than worrying about all that I can’t not get done. Thank you ❤
Wow! Great explanation about why I choose to sit down and read instead of doing my chores. I ENJOY reading. I don't enjoy chores. While I already understood that concept, I never realized that putting off something that I don't want to do also brings me relief in the moment. That feeling of relief makes me feel less burdened at the time. I've been feeling overburdened, making me seek ways to put things off. But then I feel terrible for not getting them done. The temporary relief does not remove my burden. I must work through it by tackling the things that need done!
I agree and can relate to this 100%. I definitely have avoidance behavior which leads to procrastinating. I'll even sabotage my health so that i get the excuse to lay down. For example, i will drink 2 strong coffees which gives me really bad acid reflux so then i feel like crap so I need to lay down or sit up and feel so yucky that i think i physically can't be productive. I also get so worked up that i have up take an anxiety pill which makes me tired and want to take a nap. I usually take naps up avoid chores as well. This causes tension in my marriage because my husband has to overfunction for me and not a good example for my kids. This guilt and shame also leads me to not want to shop for fun clothes or home decorations because I don't feel like I deserve it. I have so much guilt but this video validates my thought process and gives me hope.
My goodness! This really hit the spot for me. Thank you. ❤
this is my favorite one ever. thank you for offering solutions and not just talking about the whys
I can SO relate to your daughter, that was exactly me all the way through school. I grew up with undiagnosed ADHD & ASD & remember even back in primary school thinking "I wish there was a machine I could just speak into & it would write/type it out for me. I would do so well if I could only get my thoughts onto paper..." It's so great that that technology is available now!
I’m cracking up right now because I’m in the middle of transferring a book about procrastination to my phone as I see this video and ands it to my watch later list 😂😂😂😂😂 perfect timing!! ❤ can’t wait to watch this! Love you Cas!
Can you share the title of the procrastination book?
You are truly a blessing, thank you for everything.
We have so much in common personality-wise ❤
Absolutely -nail-on-the-head! First learned from the Fly Lady-Baby Steps. But you take it much further by giving ADD folks permission, freedom and tools to succeed! I love how you present the information. I'm slowly becoming less anxious about major decluttering ahead by tackling small areas first and taking small bites out of the big areas -like the BASEMENT! And thank you so much for the Planning forms to download. Great ideas!
Hey Cas. Given the hereditary nature of ADHD and your own diagnosis there is a reasonable likelihood your daughter has it too. Initiating activities and directing focus towards activities that don't excite them can be near on impossible for some with untreated ADHD. Recognising that this may be a significant part of her 'procrastinating' is important...and that seeking professional help to help her manage ADHD may be necessary and is definately worth exploring. You certainly come across as someone with ADHD who has found very effective ways to modify your life to ensure you can get lots of stuff done but Issy may need extra help to get to that point...body doubling or helping her get started may help her get the ball rolling but don't forget professional help too.. Best wishes for both you and her.
Thank you Cass, this was very helpful
😮 I didn't realize any of this, but you're TOTALLY CORRECT, and that's what was going on with me.
Now I have a starting place
❤️Addicted to progress! Thank you Cas!
I’m such a procrastinator that when I saw this video come out, I saved it to my “Watch Later” folder. 😊
-then… it took me a month to get to it!!! 😅
This video is just what I needed to hear!!
I've listened to this when it came out, I know because of the 👍 but I decided to listen to it again. I mean, it has my ''middle'' name in the title.
I know the science behind it, but this is the first time I understood how to work my way out of this bad behavior. I wrote : stop procrastinating! Do it for 5 minutes! On a few post-it notes and spread them around my home; so the training begins!
I used to be a messy cricket before I got addicted to organization and order, hopefully this is what I need to get addicted to progress!
I really needed to hear this today. Thank you Cas❣️
I love your take on things! I was inspired to get up and do things while watching this 😊
Thank You Cas❣️❣️❣️
Cas, I needed to hear this. It’s the best explanation I’ve heard. Thank you!!!
SO HELPFUL!!! Thank you so much. Giant hugs
Your timing was perfect because this is exactly what I'm doing
Thank you so much Cass I really appreciate your ongoing help and energy that you put in your videos I feel motivated every time I listen to you again thank you
What a wonderful Podcast, thank you so much. It is really nice to understand that I am not destined to live as a lazy slob. Decluttering my house has changed my life, and now I know why it is making me so happy. It's worth more than money... it's a wonderful high, the pride I get at looking the results. Excellent explanation, thank you. I am going to grab a trash bag and get busy.
You're amazing! I've had this issue for as long as I can remember. Thank you for giving me a new perspective and ideas that I can use to improve. I hope that you know that you've changed my life since I've been following you 👀 in so many ways. ❤ I'm grateful for you 🤗
The best talk I've heard in a long time!
I needed this, Cas. It ties in with a few other angles in my earlier life. Blessings to you and your daughter.
I am tossing around the question whether a mum who is very stressed in pregnancy, her emotions regustering with her unborn whose dopamine gets depressed and then the growing child for seemingly 'no reason at all' is racing towards self-medication.... ? From prayer ministry training (and from my own self) I definitely know that certain things are oassed on in utero...
'Perfectionism, procrastination or stress.... great to remember.
Thank you for teaching how to mske inroads.... Invaluable. Bless you Cas.
G Ire
G Ire
Wow Cass, How do you know me!!!!
I shared this with best friend and my daughter!!!!
Thank you so much!!
WOW! This podcast stopped me in my tracks. I'm a chronic procrastinator for all the reasons (and more) you mention. I had NO IDEA about the dopamine effect but it makes so much sense. Your podcast has given me hope. Another podcast exploring more ways to get over these dopamine hungry brain blockers would be very welcome. I'm thinking that "people" projects vs "stuff" projects vs "task" projects may all need a slightly different mindset. Hmmm, bit overwhelmed already, I think I'll have a cup of tea and a slice of dopamine!! Thanks Cas.
Wow! Completely eye-opening. You could have been talking about my 17yr old daughter. Identical. Grade 12 was brutal for her even though she's a genius (and yes, perfectionist). This helped me as well. Both my daughter and I thought the dopamine hit was from the stress but that didn't make sense. It's from the short relief of the procrastination. Wow! I wish I knew this one year ago!
I'm your age exactly and I know I procrastinate but also my life is too crazy to do so so I've definitely retrained myself somewhat. But it's hard. But I relate to my daughter in a way my husband can't.
That part about speech-to-text reminded me of that old story.
I was at the 2nd year of the university and had to submit a paper. I knew the theme well, but I struggled a lot with the main idea of the paper, like the storyline I must unfold. One warm spring day I spent about three hours trying to type just something useful, and had no luck, so I turned my computer off and went home. While I was walking I started quietly talking to myself about the paper problem, like giving an imaginary lection. And in about half an hour I found out and spoke out the whooooole storyline, and composed the most important parts of paper itself. And it was witty, logical and fresh. And as soon as I got home, took my coat and shoes off, I forgot all of it. Completely and forever. My brain made a good joke on me.
15:26 the solution starts
What a blessing! Cas, I watched this video several times and will put it in a playlist for inspiration. I needed to hear every word. ❤
Thank you for this detailed & enlightening explanation. It was exactly what I needed to get motivated.
Thanks for teaching us while you teach your daughter.
Woah, that insight re avoiding giving us a dopamine hit is a huge game changer….thank yiu❤
I’m currently reading ‘Tiny Habits” by BJ FOGG. It talks about changing behaviors like procrastination one little step at a time with a behavior model that includes prompt, ability, & motivation. Actually complementary to this podcast. The approach also notes that we don’t need to beat ourselves up over it but finding the why, we aren’t doing what we really want/need to do. Hope that makes sense lol anyway Really enjoyed this post! Thank you!
Procrastination is a form of perfectionism.
YES, INDEED IT IS! 😊
No it's not. It's avoidance behavior. We procrastinate when we are overloaded with life and need a brain break. It's a defense mechanism to avoid mentally taxing tasks. Perfectionism is a whole other thing.
This is excellent! I had a great conversation with my nephew this morning about procrastination. I'll share this episode with him.
How did you know I needed to vacuum???? Thanks for saying all of this!!! I definitely needed it.
This is fantastic....Im speechless!! :)
Thank you so much this really made sense. 😊
This was fascinating and incredibly informative! I am just floored at how much I learn from you day after day! You absolutely nailed me on this one! I had no idea you could be addicted to procrastinating! I have all the things; ADHD, perfectionism, and high stress and I even procrastinate on things I Like to do. 🙄 This was just so helpful for explaining WHY I do stupid stuff like that. Thank you so much for this. I think this will help me take steps to get out of the “bad” dopamine addiction and move towards the “good” one!
This is so good, and helpful Cass!
Thank you
Ty❤❤❤❤
The book Bird by Bird comes to mind, by Anne Lamott. That last minute assignment. Aw. I feel for your daughter. Thanks for offering solutions vs. just adding or supporting categories that make us feel bad. Oh the Shame LOL.
Thanks!
So glad to hear that your daughter was able to make progress. I have have ADHD and when I was is school and given a huge assignment, sometimes I could see how to break it down into different steps. I would need to talk out the process with someone, and write the different steps down in order to know what was involved and to keep track of my progress. I know everyone with ADHD has different coping skills but maybe that approach would be beneficial to your daughter as well. Hope it all goes well with her project and she feels good about what she has accomplished. 😊
I found this really helpful. Thanks Cas! 😊
Thank you Cas! This is so helpful, I feel ready to start decluttering again ❤ Just needed the inspiration, you're a star x😊
Learned a LOT today! Now off my duff and to make those phone calls…
This is so interesting. I procrastinate worse than anyone I've ever known. It's always rooted in either some fear or anxiety, or for the physical things a of lack of energy/ motivation. You mentioned addiction, I'm also an addict. Sober for 7 years now. I also often wonder if i have adhd. Anyway Here are some top examples of my procrastinating habits: Haven't been to a doctor of any kind in 8 years, even though i have symptoms daily that signal my organs are failing. I just keep saying I'll call tomorrow. Even though i feel terrible all the time. Just scared of actually doing it... Another example. Haven't talked to my dad in 14 years. I always say I'm going to call him. Then i don't. (Although i did send him a birthday card recently so that was a step in the right direction) it's not that i don't want to, I'm just nervous about how it will go. But i also know that one day i wont have the chance so i always think why cant i just do the things i know i should be doing!!!!! It's so frustrating. I'm also late to everything. Every single thing. I feel like I'm at my wits end, with myself. 😤 And i try to do things, set goals, make lists, set four thousand alarms and reminders. (I forget everything if not reminded, that one i've realized I really can't help!) Nothing keeps me accountable. 🤦♀️
Pick ONE thing and do it first thing in the morning. (I'm the one to talk - I also procrastinate a lot!). But sometimes this works for me. When I pick one thing and do it immediately in the morning. I hate making calls as well. You can do it - your health is worth it - you are worth it!
Anxiety and fear are big reasons for procrastinating! What is the WORST thing that would happen if you called your Dad right this minute? What is the WORST thing about that worst thing? Sometimes walking the fear all the way down to the end helps it not seem so scary anymore.
Congratulations on your sobriety 🎉
Thank you so so much for this information and advice!
OMG! This is life changing!!!!
Love this!!❤
Thank you Cass!
Great podcast! Came at a perfect time too. Been feeling in a slump. Ive been working toward getting rid of my perfection procrastination since winter and the last few weeks have felt like ive taken a few steps back. Really enjoyed the science behind it! ❤❤❤
Great topic... thanks I'll watch it later! 🤣🤣🤣
Cas! TY! When you said taking the medication like for my spine it brings me a great deal of dopermine! But when I don’t have it, I’m completely down and stuck in quicksand! Ty sincerely Linda
Love the idea you gave your daughter. I'm going to tell my daughter to do that as she's the same way. My daughter is in grade 11 as well and her name is Izzy too😊
Thank you for Sharing the life changing information Wow this is really helpful for me ❤.