Covert Impacts of Delayed Action on Diligent Scribes
In the world of writing, procrastination can take many forms, and one author, Colleen M. Story, has recognised a unique type that has been holding them back. Despite publishing ten books and building a successful author platform, Story has admitted to procrastinating on advancing her writing business.
This form of procrastination, which Story terms as "productive procrastination," is not about neglecting work entirely. Instead, it involves doing enough to maintain the current level but not enough to progress. This can manifest in various ways, such as endlessly tinkering with the same type of content, spending excessive time on administrative work, and focusing on safe visibility tactics instead of higher-stakes opportunities.
Recognising and addressing productive procrastination requires honesty and self-reflection. One must ask themselves what they are avoiding by staying in their current position. For Story, the root cause lies in deep-seated fears such as the fear of failure, inadequacy, and inability.
Moving to the next level in one's writing career always involves risk. It requires being seen in a new way and stepping into a new identity that might feel unfamiliar. However, understanding the emotional reflex behind current habits can help one build a writing and business rhythm that reflects where they're going, not just where they've been.
If one can identify their procrastination type, they can make different choices. For instance, Story suggests asking oneself, "What would next-level me prioritise?" as a way to shift focus and move forward. If one understands what they're protecting themselves from, they can make choices that propel them forward.
Journaling has been a helpful tool for Story in identifying the fears that were causing her procrastination. Procrastination, she explains, is not just a time management or discipline problem; it is an emotional coping technique used to avoid uncomfortable or risky situations.
Story, a well-known writer, coach, and motivational speaker with over 20 years of experience in the creative writing industry, offers personalised coaching plans and frequently serves as a workshop leader and motivational speaker. Her book, "Escape the Writer's Web," can help identify one's procrastination type and show how to move forward in a way that fits their real creative life.
Realising one is staying safe by "doing what they always do" can indicate a need for change. As a writer grows, procrastination becomes more nuanced and personal, often appearing as focusing on what's working, staying consistent, and protecting energy, when in reality, it's keeping one stuck in the same circles.
In conclusion, productive procrastination can be a silent roadblock in one's writing career. However, by recognising and addressing it, one can gain back some of their freedom and move towards their next level of success.
