One of the most counterintuitive truths about procrastination: the struggle against it often makes it worse. Acceptance — clearly misunderstood — is one of the most powerful tools available.
What Acceptance of Procrastination Actually Means
Acceptance does NOT mean:
- Liking or approving of procrastination
- Giving up on getting better
- Thinking procrastination is okay
Acceptance DOES mean:
- Acknowledging procrastination without adding unnecessary struggle against the fact of its existence
- Allowing procrastination to be present without fighting it into bigger problems
- Making room for procrastination while still living your values
The ACT Approach to Procrastination
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) uses acceptance as a core tool: instead of fighting procrastination, you learn to make room for it while committing to valued action regardless.
The Paradox of Accepting Procrastination
Many people find that when they stop fighting procrastination and simply allow it, it loses intensity. The suffering of procrastination is partly the struggle against it.