The Truth Behind Procrastination – Written by Ralia Farah

 Hey, writers, let’s face it: we all know that familiar tug of procrastination. It lurks in the corners of our creative spaces, whispering sweet nothings of distraction while we wrestle with that formidable blank page. Yet, as maddening as it can be, there’s an undeniable rhythm to this dance between intention and avoidance. For many of us, it becomes a curious partner in our creative process, providing both frustration and inspiration in equal measure.
 
Procrastination is often viewed as the villain in the narrative of productivity. We’ve all heard the advice: “Just sit down and write!” Yet, in the chaos of our minds, taking that step can often feel monumental. So, we scroll through endless social media feeds, reorganize our bookshelves by color, or find ourselves down the rabbit hole of documentary binges (we’re all guilty of something). However, each detour, while seemingly unproductive, holds potential. Sometimes, we stumble upon a thought or idea that we wouldn’t have formed in a more regimented state.
 
There’s something almost poetic about these moments of diversion. In sinking our teeth into a new hobby or indulging in a random burst of experimentation, we often unearth fragments of inspiration that can blend seamlessly into our narratives. Procrastination, when embraced, can foster unexpected connections and expand our horizons as creators. A fleeting thought while washing dishes might evolve into an entirely new character; an afternoon spent gardening could lead to the perfect metaphor for growth.
 
Moreover, this tendency to delay can be a calling card of the over-thinker. The incessant mental chatter, the agonizing contemplation of every word and sentence, can lead to paralysis. Ironically, through our avoidance, we might discover what’s truly holding us back: fear of imperfection, pressure to conform, or simply the weight of expectation. Recognizing procrastination as a revealing insight can shift its power from an adversary to a friend.
 
The key lies in finding balance. Allow yourself those moments of retreat, but don’t let them consume you. Set aside blocks of time where you commit to just five minutes of writing. You may be surprised at how the initial resistance melts away, revealing a surge of words that had been waiting, buried beneath layers of distraction.
 
In the end, procrastination might not be the nasty inconvenience we often perceive, but rather a necessary part of our artistic journey. It invites us to slow down and reflect, allowing for spontaneity and creativity to flourish in unexpected ways. So, the next time you find yourself dodging the page, welcome the distraction, but remember to return to your craft. After all, the beauty of writing lies not only in the act itself, but in the myriad experiences that color our words. Embrace the messiness of it all, for within lies the essence of your unique voice. Happy reading and writing!

This blog post was written by Ralia Farah.