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Understanding the Thin Line Between Laziness and Perfectionism
Perfectionism is often referred to as a modern-day affliction.
Photo by Daniele Levis Pelusi on Unsplash
You might identify as a perfectionist, using it as a reason for not completing tasks. But is it genuinely perfectionism, or is it merely a sophisticated excuse?
Today, many procrastinators have stopped labeling themselves as lazy. Instead, they attribute their inaction to perfectionism, which seems like a more acceptable justification. The consequence of clinging to these justifications is that you can comfortably avoid taking action.
The only path to progress is to try something, make mistakes, and then rectify them. This approach applies to all endeavors and objectives. If you're feeling stagnant, it typically boils down to one of two issues:
- You're striving for unattainable perfection.
- You're avoiding effort altogether.
So, which one resonates more with you?
The purpose of this article is to challenge both you and me. It's time to shed the false identity.
When I noticed my productivity on Medium plummeting, I kept telling myself that I was too afraid to publish 'subpar' articles. I believed my ideas were insufficiently developed and that my drafts were unworthy, leading me to repeatedly close the app in frustration.
However, I eventually had to confront the real issue. To my surprise, it wasn't about perfectionism at all; it was simply a matter of laziness disguising itself behind a façade.
Recognizing the true challenge was crucial in finding an effective solution. It was laziness, plain and simple.
Embracing Honesty with Yourself
This struggle extends beyond just writing on Medium. We encounter similar issues in various aspects of our lives.
Consider the fitness plans we abandon, the diets we cheat on, or the tasks we continuously postpone.
We procrastinate repeatedly, attributing our delays to perfectionism, fear of failure, or even fear of success. The question remains: what truly holds us back?
Ultimately, our excuses often shift blame onto external factors, allowing us to evade responsibility for our own laziness.
Here’s my advice: stop making excuses for your shortcomings. Own up to them, even if the reasons may not be socially acceptable. Acknowledge it to yourself.
I am lazy.
Admitting it grants you back control over your situation.
Three Reasons for Procrastination Beyond Perfectionism
Loss of Interest in Your Goal
I recall the struggle of keeping pace with my master’s program. I would come up with a myriad of excuses for my late assignments and the last-minute rush to complete my work. Eventually, I had an honest conversation with myself and realized I had lost interest in my studies. Coming to that conclusion was liberating.
Insufficient Skillset for the Task
Your assertion of perfectionism might be masking a lack of the necessary skills to accomplish your tasks. Accepting this reality allows you to either seek out the skills you need or decide to let the task go entirely.
Plain Old Laziness
Laziness is a universal condition, likely as old as humanity itself. Picture a caveman reluctant to hunt because he felt lazy—that humor reflects a common truth. Laziness, fatigue, distraction, or boredom could all be reasons you hesitate to act. Acknowledging this is vital since the remedy for laziness is often straightforward.
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Chapter 1: Recognizing the Difference
The distinction between laziness and perfectionism can be subtle yet impactful. Understanding this can help you take actionable steps toward improvement.
Section 1.1: The Perfectionism Facade
Many use perfectionism as a shield against accountability. It’s essential to recognize when this mindset is holding you back.
In the video "Dr Emily - Curb Your Perfectionism," we explore how to tackle perfectionism effectively and reclaim your productivity.
Section 1.2: Unmasking Laziness
Identifying laziness for what it is can empower you to address it head-on.
The video "A Helpful Productivity Guide for the 'Lazy Perfectionist' in 2024" provides insights on overcoming procrastination and enhancing productivity.