Procrastination, Panic and Podcast
Why is it so hard to start the things that actually matter to us?
So, here’s what should’ve happened: I had the whole afternoon blocked off, my shiny new mic plugged in, and my notes ready to go. The plan? Record this very first episode.
The reality? Three hours later and I’d deep-cleaned my drawers, replied to month-old emails, and fertilised every damn houseplant in the flat.
Sound familiar?
Yep, this episode kicks off with a confession: procrastination very nearly stopped me from launching this podcast at all. So what better way to start than by talking about the thing that almost killed it?
What this episode is really about
This isn’t another "just be more disciplined" lecture. In this episode, I’m unpacking what’s really going on when we procrastinate—and it’s not about being lazy.
We’ll dig into the emotional and biological roots of procrastination (spoiler: your amygdala is throwing a tantrum), why your brain thinks launching a podcast is basically mortal danger, and how perfectionism, fear of judgment, and inner critic narratives keep us stuck.
I’ll walk you through five science-backed, self-kindness-fuelled strategies to help you stop spiralling and start showing up. So whether you’re avoiding a big work project, a passion you’ve put on hold, or even just your inbox—you’ll leave this episode with clarity, compassion, and momentum.
Key Takeaways
🧠 Procrastination isn’t a time problem.
It’s your brain trying to protect you from emotional discomfort—like fear of failure, criticism, or not being good enough.
🗣 Name it to tame it.
Labelling your feelings switches your brain from panic mode to problem-solving mode. Saying “I’m scared it won’t be good enough” is more helpful than “I’m lazy.”
🧾 Rewrite the story.
Old identity labels like “I’m not consistent” can quietly sabotage you. Challenge them. You’re allowed to update your story.
✨ Confidence comes after action.
You don’t need to feel ready—you just need to begin. Confidence is something you build, not something you wait for.
👀 The spotlight effect is lying.
People aren’t watching or judging you as closely as you think. They’re too busy worrying about their own stuff.
🎭 Embody the version of you you’re becoming.
Ask: “What would the confident, consistent version of me do here?” Then do that. Repetition creates identity.
Pep Talk
You’re not undisciplined or somehow lacking 'grit'. You’re just human—and your brain is doing its best to keep you safe. But safe doesn’t mean fulfilled. You get to choose differently now. One small action at a time.
Resources Mentioned
📝 Journaling for Procrastination – Free journaling guide to help you coach yourself through resistance and finally start the thing.
👉 Get the guide here: http://unwritten.coach/procrastination
MORE FROM ME
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