Overcoming Procrastination: How Mothers Can Beat the Common Causes and Thrive

Carla Watson
Sep 19, 2024
4 min read

In the delicate dance of motherhood, where every day is a symphony of responsibilities, procrastination often finds its way to creep into our lives like an uninvited guest. Between the relentless rhythm of household chores, the tender demands of the little and big ones we care for, and the pursuit of personal and professional aspirations, it's easy to become overwhelmed. The to-do list stretches endlessly, and the quest towards perfection can make tasks seem never ending, leading us into frustration.

Procrastination is more than a mere lapse in time management; it often stems from deeper currents of overwhelm, fatigue, and self-doubt. Understanding these underlying causes is the first step toward not just overcoming procrastination, but to start exploring the root causes and transforming this coping mechanism disguised as a habit into something that can actually help us grow and glow. In today's blog I will discuss about procrastination as a mum, some common causes, tips, and the benefits of working with a Wellbeing Coach can have over procrastination.

With a blend of professional insight and compassionate understanding, we will uncover some information that hopefully will help you to break free from the procrastination trap. Whether you're struggling to initiate a daunting project, feeling engulfed by daily tasks, or seeking ways to reignite your motivation, my hope is this blog leaves you with some inspiration for your journey.

Common Causes of Procrastination for Mothers

1. Overwhelm: Managing household chores, childcare, and possibly a job can lead to feeling overwhelmed. When tasks pile up, it can become difficult to know where to start, leading to procrastination.

2. Perfectionism: Many mothers strive for perfection in everything they do. This can result in delaying tasks until the “perfect” time, which often never arrives.

3. Fatigue: The physical and mental exhaustion from parenting can reduce energy levels and motivation, causing mothers to put off tasks.

4. Lack of Time: Juggling multiple roles and responsibilities can leave little time for completing tasks, leading to procrastination.

5. Self-Doubt: Doubting one's abilities or decisions can result in hesitation and delay in taking action.

6. Distraction: The constant demands of children and household can create distractions, making it difficult to focus on tasks.

7. Protection Mechanism: Sometimes, unconsciously, we feel that by procrastinating, we are protecting ourselves from something (rejection, potential dangers, among others). To explore this possibility, ask yourself: What might procrastination be protecting me from?

Tips to Overcome Procrastination

1. Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: Dividing larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps can make them seem less daunting and easier to start.

2. Set Realistic Goals: Establish achievable goals that fit within the constraints of time and energy. This can help in maintaining a sense of accomplishment and motivation.

3. Prioritize: Identify the most important tasks and focus on them first. Using a priority list can help in managing time effectively.

4. Establish Routines: Creating a daily or weekly routine can provide structure and make it easier to stay on track with tasks.

5. Practice Self-Compassion: Acknowledge that it's okay not to be perfect and to make mistakes. This can reduce the pressure to procrastinate.

6. Use Timers: Setting a timer for short work periods can help in maintaining focus and making tasks more manageable.

7. Seek Support: Sharing responsibilities with a partner, family members, or friends can alleviate some of the burden and reduce procrastination.

How Working with a Wellbeing Coach Can Help

1. Personalized Guidance: A wellbeing coach can provide personalized advice tailored to a mother’s specific circumstances and challenges, helping to identify and address the root causes of procrastination.

2. Goal Setting: Coaches assist in setting realistic, achievable goals and create a step-by-step plan to reach them. This can make tasks less overwhelming and more manageable.

3. Accountability: Regular check-ins with a coach provide a sense of accountability, motivating mothers to stay on track and complete tasks.

4. Stress Management Techniques: Wellbeing coaches often teach stress management and relaxation techniques, which can reduce feelings of overwhelm and improve focus.

5. Building Confidence: Coaches work on boosting self-confidence and reducing self-doubt, enabling mothers to tackle tasks more assertively.

6. Time Management Strategies: Learning effective time management strategies from a coach can help mothers organize their day better, ensuring they have time to complete necessary tasks without feeling rushed or stressed.

7. Emotional Support: Having a coach provides emotional support and encouragement, making it easier to navigate the challenges of motherhood without resorting to procrastination.

Procrastination is a common challenge for mothers due to the numerous demands on their time and energy. However, by understanding its causes and implementing practical strategies, it is possible to manage and overcome procrastination. Working with a wellbeing coach can provide additional support, guidance, and motivation, helping mothers to achieve a more balanced and fulfilling life.

How I can help

Using my coaching approach in combination with alternative somatic methodologies, together, we will turn procrastination into a path of growth, allowing the beauty of our daily lives to unfold with grace and intention.