AF329 - Why Are You Putting This Off?

I want to delve into a topic that affects us all - procrastination and perfectionism. These struggles are not limited to just business owners or entrepreneurs, but are common among all people. So, let's dive in and explore how we can overcome these hurdles.

In this episode, Kristin Ostrander discusses the relationship between procrastination and perfectionism. She highlights the negative impact of perfectionism on motivation and progress, and offers strategies to overcome it, such as setting realistic goals and embracing imperfections. She encourages listeners to focus on the process rather than the end result, and to find joy in the journey of achieving their goals. She also mentions her book, "Dream Big Step Small," which provides further insights into these concepts. The episode ends with her inviting listeners to join her for the next episode.

The Connection Between Procrastination and Perfectionism

Perfectionism and procrastination often go hand in hand. It's important to recognize and identify our perfectionistic tendencies, as they may be hidden or subconscious. Common thoughts and beliefs associated with perfectionism include the fear of failure, the need to be perfect, and the fear of others' judgment. Behaviors that reveal perfectionism and procrastination include chronic procrastination, difficulty completing tasks, and being overly cautious.

Striving for perfection is unrealistic and can hinder progress. Instead, I suggest creating an "in a perfect world" scenario, where you can design your ideal life and set realistic goals and expectations based on that vision. My book, "Dream Big Step Small," delves deeper into this concept and provides practical steps to close the gap between where you are and where you want to be.

Embracing Imperfections and Setting Realistic Expectations

It's crucial to let go of the need for perfection and embrace our imperfections. Perfectionism can negatively impact motivation and lead to achieving less. In a world of instant gratification and social media, it's easy to expect instant results. However, true growth takes time.

Start small and focus on small accomplishments to keep your motivation and momentum going. Avoid setting goals of unreasonable excellence without allowing for a learning curve. Treat yourself with kindness, especially when learning something new.

For instance, if you're aiming to get in better shape, don't dive headfirst into a rigorous workout routine if you're not used to exercising. Start with just two days a week of exercise and gradually increase from there. Remember, progress, no matter how slow, is still progress.

Overcoming Perfectionism and Procrastination

Let go of the need to perform at a certain level. You don't have to prove yourself to anyone. Your happiness and priorities should take precedence over others' judgments. Be patient with yourself, take small steps towards your goals, and be proud of your progress. You have the power to unsubscribe from others' judgmental thoughts and focus on what truly matters to you.

Don't let others dictate your goals and priorities based on their opinions or judgments. Set realistic goals and expectations for yourself, taking small steps towards progress rather than striving for perfection. Avoid making assumptions about yourself or others and seek feedback only from those who are knowledgeable and supportive.

The Joy of the Journey

Focus on the process rather than solely on the end result. Find joy in the journey by appreciating the little things along the way. Learning something new, making mistakes and correcting them, and even facing roadblocks can all be opportunities for growth and gratitude.

The arrival or achieving a goal will not necessarily bring the fulfillment you desire. Instead, it's the steps taken and the lessons learned during the journey that truly shape and transform you. By focusing on the process, you can build yourself into a better version and accumulate valuable experiences and insights.

Conclusion

For those struggling with perfectionism and procrastination, remember, you are not alone. Take a book or a chapter and focus on it as a way to sprinkle more peace, joy, and contentment into your life. This could involve letting go of assumptions, setting realistic expectations, or simply deciding to prioritize the process over the end result.

I wish you joy, peace, contentment, and progress, one step at a time. I'm grateful for your time and hope that my words have encouraged you to take positive steps forward. Join me again next week for another episode of The Amazon Files.

WATCH:

 LISTEN:

"We achieve less when we're trying to be perfect because we're focusing on the wrong thing." - Kristin Ostrander

TIMESTAMPS:

Recognizing Perfectionism and Procrastination (00:01:05)

The speaker discusses the struggle with perfectionism and procrastination and the need to recognize and identify these behaviors.

Behaviors Revealing Perfectionism and Procrastination (00:03:14)

The speaker discusses various behaviors that reveal perfectionism and procrastination, such as chronic procrastination, difficulty completing tasks, and being overly cautious.

Practical Ways to Overcome Perfectionism and Procrastination (00:04:49)

The speaker offers practical ways to push past perfectionism and procrastination, including setting realistic expectations, embracing imperfection, and setting realistic goals.

The value of effort and realistic expectations (00:11:24)

The speaker discusses the importance of realizing that success takes time and effort, and encourages setting realistic expectations and focusing on small accomplishments.

Taking small steps towards goals (00:13:03)

The speaker emphasizes the benefits of setting bite-sized goals and taking small steps towards achieving them, with the idea that progress is still progress even if it's slow.

Overcoming perfectionism and judgment (00:18:41)

The speaker addresses the pressure to be perfect and the fear of judgment, encouraging listeners to let go of others' opinions and prioritize their own well-being and happiness.

Setting Realistic Goals (00:29:54)

Focus on the process and enjoy the steps taken to achieve a goal, rather than just the end result.

Handling Feedback and Criticism (00:24:35)

Learn to discern the source of feedback and criticism, only accepting it from those who are knowledgeable and coming from a place of love and service.

Avoiding Assumptions and Editing Yourself (00:23:27)

Don't make assumptions about yourself or others, and don't edit yourself based on others' opinions or judgments. Trust the facts, not the feelings.

The process is important (00:36:36)

The speaker emphasizes the importance of focusing on the process and enjoying the journey rather than solely focusing on the end result.

Sprinkling peace and joy (00:37:50)

The speaker discusses ways to incorporate more peace, joy, and contentment in life, such as letting go of assumptions and setting realistic expectations.

Final thoughts and gratitude (00:38:51)

The speaker expresses gratitude for the listeners' time and encourages them to take positive steps forward, ending the episode on a hopeful note.

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