When it’s up to us how to deal with some problem, usually, we don’t share the responsibilities with other people, especially if it is related to our mental health. Finally, we don’t want to bother anyone, seem weak, feel ashamed, etc. But is it possible to help someone you see needs help, but you don’t know how to do it politely? Well, Virtue map has some ideas for you to think about.
What is procrastination, and where does it come from?
Procrastination is not just being lazy or wasting time on unnecessary things. It’s the act of delaying tasks in favor of doing something a person considers more pleasant. It comes from different reasons – from the simplest fatigue to a complex of mental issues that stop a person from being active. Most often, it results from anxiety, perfectionism, ADHD, and other related issues.
What can procrastination look like in different environments?
Depending on where a person lives and what his duties are, people can replace the necessary tasks with no significant actions differently. For example, if employees are procrastinating at the office, you’ll most often see them in the smoking room, kitchen, or other restrooms just chatting about nothing. Some that are introverted sit and scroll through social media feeds or are occupied with any other activities except for work.
When a person works or studies from home, the range of unnecessary actions extends to some housework, having meals, taking a nap, walking with a dog, etc. The fact is returning to the obligatory task always evokes unpleasant feelings and emotions that cause stress.
Is it possible to help a person deal with it?
Generally, it is possible, but there are different contexts that you have to consider:
- If you have the same problem too, but to a smaller degree, you can express some ideas that let them know you are into it. Thus, a person feels understood and can feel better – in this case, encourage him to share some ideas about why it happens (and share yours, of course).
- If you’re far from understanding why it’s happening and you don’t have such problems, first and foremost – never blame a person for being lazy or not hard-working. Ask him about his feelings first – maybe you learn something that bothers him. If you already know the reasons, ask if he has any ideas on how to fix them. You can suggest yours, but gently.
- If neither option is convenient, suggest some tools that can help a person work on himself. If offered as if by the way, it won’t break the borders of personal space, but you will still help.
A Virtue map tool is one of the best that helps beat procrastination. It is systematic and understandable for anyone.
Helping other people is a subtle matter that requires a high level of politeness and emotional understanding. If you wanna express your empathy by participating in a person’s daily routine – be gentle and ready to listen. And of course, if you advise – give the best tools to try!