Psychologists say the habit of leaving tasks unfinished – what many call “open loops” – can sap mental energy and harm physical health. Dr. Vara Saripalli, a clinical psychologist in Chicago, notes that people avoid tasks because they focus on the immediate discomfort rather than the longer‑term costs of waiting.
Health impacts of chronic procrastination
Research from Dr. Fuschia Sirois, a professor of social and health psychology at Durham University, links chronic procrastination to a weakened immune system, chronic disease, anxiety, digestive problems, low self‑esteem and loneliness. In a personal account, a German content creator with ADHD and autism described stomachaches that appeared when procrastination‑related worries built up.
Why we put off tasks
Experts identify two primary drivers. First, negative emotions tied to a task – fear of imperfection, people‑pleasing, or potential hurt – can trigger avoidance. Second, a broader cultural shift makes many people uncomfortable with finality, leading them to cling to options even when a simple action, like returning a package, would be easier.
Heavy responsibilities, excessive phone use, and fatigue also play a role. When procrastination becomes chronic, it may signal underlying conditions such as depression, ADHD or anxiety disorders, which lower tolerance for negative feelings about tasks.
Practical steps to close loops
Both experts and individuals recommend small, incremental actions. Breaking a larger task into tiny steps, scheduling short blocks of free time for specific chores, and practicing self‑compassion can reduce guilt and shame, the two emotions most commonly felt when procrastinating.
Therapy can help identify pessimistic thought patterns and provide evidence‑based tools. Dr. Sirois recently released a free online toolkit for those seeking professional guidance.
Finding purpose in productivity
When people view completed tasks as steps toward a larger life purpose or a healthier family environment, motivation improves. Recognizing that a clean, cozy space benefits the whole household, or that exercising a few minutes builds trust in one’s reliability, can turn habit‑building into a meaningful pursuit.
Ultimately, acknowledging the urge to procrastinate, assessing the true cost of delay, and taking modest action can free mental bandwidth for family, faith, and community life.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
