Let’s talk about something we’ve all experienced at some point – procrastination. Whether it’s shopping for back-to-school, tackling a mountain of laundry, or finally unloading the dishwasher, we’ve all been there. Today, I want to explore the reasons behind procrastination and share some practical tips to help you break free from that paralyzing freeze mode.

The Procrastination Trap

Procrastination often creeps in when we create stories about tasks being complicated or time-consuming. This can be overwhelming, leading us to push things off, adding to our already heavy mental load. As moms, it’s crucial to recognize that procrastination doesn’t make us lazy. Instead, it might be a signal from our nervous system that it needs some compassion and gentleness.

Understanding the Freeze Response

Procrastination is often linked to our nervous system’s freeze response. When overwhelmed or stressed, our bodies can enter a state of freeze, much like an animal playing dead in the wild. For perfectionists, this response may be triggered when facing tasks that feel unsafe if not done perfectly, like organizing a party or giving a presentation.

Breaking Free from Procrastination:

The good news is that we don’t have to stay stuck in procrastination. Recognizing and understanding the freeze response is the first step. Here are some body-based nervous system tools to help you ease out of that freeze and get back into action:

1. Be Gentle with Yourself: Like a bear emerging from hibernation, take it slow. Understand that your nervous system needs time to transition from freeze to action. Small and slow progress is okay.
2. Connect with Your Body: Reconnect with your body by tapping or gently squeezing your arms and legs. Activate your five senses through the practice of orienting – what do you see, hear, smell, taste, and feel?
3. Step Outside: Put on your sneakers and get outside. Fresh air, sunlight, and movement are powerful regulators for your nervous system. Even if it’s cold, a favorite upbeat song can work wonders to lift your spirits.

So, the next time you catch yourself procrastinating, remember – you’re not lazy. Your nervous system might just need a little extra care and attention. By implementing these body-based tools, you can gently ease out of freeze mode and reclaim your momentum. Happy tackling those to-dos!

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