Procrastination Book Summary - Procrastination Book explained in key points
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Procrastination summary

Jane B. Burka Lenora M. Yuen

Why You Do It, What to Do About It Now

4.1 (442 ratings)
17 mins

Brief summary

Procrastination by Jane B. Burka & Lenora M. Yuen is a self-help book that identifies the underlying reasons for procrastination, and offers strategies for overcoming it. It provides practical tools for prioritizing tasks, managing time, and reducing anxiety to help readers overcome procrastination.

Table of Contents

    Procrastination
    Summary of 9 key ideas

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    A Psychologically Complex Issue

    While women tend to procrastinate less than men, it can affect everyone, in a range of occupations. Being self-critical and avoiding certain emotions, like fear and doubt, play surprisingly large roles in the behavior.

    There are a lot of complex elements involved, which is why an instant change isn't often possible – you can’t just flip off your procrastination switch. But it is possible to reduce the behavior with time and effort.

    It’s also worth mentioning that procrastination doesn’t equate to stupidity. When people procrastinate, they often put off an important task until the last minute. In that scenario, the work might be rushed or turned in late. The resulting consequences can make procrastinators feel bad about themselves and question their abilities – but it’s important to remember that the subpar work is a result of a habit; it doesn’t indicate anything about intelligence.

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    Key ideas in Procrastination

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    What is Procrastination about?

    Procrastination (1983) is a deep dive into procrastination – and why people struggle with it. Drawing on personal and professional experience, it offers a tested program and tips on how to conquer procrastination tendencies.

    Procrastination Review

    Procrastination (1983) is a valuable read for anyone struggling with putting things off and seeking strategies for overcoming this common challenge. Here are three reasons why this book stands out:

    • It offers practical solutions to help readers break free from the habit of procrastination, enabling them to become more productive and achieve their goals.
    • Through a combination of real-life stories and psychological research, the book explores the underlying causes of procrastination, providing readers with valuable insights and understanding.
    • With its friendly and relatable tone, the book makes the topic of procrastination accessible and engaging, ensuring that readers stay motivated throughout their journey of overcoming this self-sabotaging behavior.

    Who should read Procrastination?

    • People seeking to understand why they procrastinate
    • Compulsive procrastinators looking for ways to improve
    • Friends or family of procrastinators who want to help

    About the Author

    Jane B. Burka, PhD, is a psychologist and psychoanalyst who specializes in procrastination, work inhibition, creative blocks, mood disorders, relationship issues, grief, trauma, and life transitions. She runs a private practice and is also on the faculty at the Psychoanalytic Institute of Northern California. 

    Lenora M. Yuen, PhD, is a psychologist based in California. She organized the first US procrastination treatment group at the University of California, Berkeley, along with Jane Burka.

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    Procrastination FAQs 

    What is the main message of Procrastination?

    The main message of Procrastination is understanding the underlying causes of procrastination and finding strategies to overcome it.

    How long does it take to read Procrastination?

    The reading time for Procrastination can vary depending on the reader's speed. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.

    Is Procrastination a good book? Is it worth reading?

    Procrastination is a valuable read for anyone struggling with procrastination. It offers insights and practical tips to help you take control of your time and productivity.

    Who is the author of Procrastination?

    The authors of Procrastination are Jane B. Burka and Lenora M. Yuen.

    What to read after Procrastination?

    If you're wondering what to read next after Procrastination, here are some recommendations we suggest:
    • The Procrastination Cure by Jeffery Combs
    • How to Stop Procrastinating by Steve Scott
    • The Procrastination Cure by Damon Zahariades
    • The Now Habit by Neil Fiore
    • Badass Habits by Jen Sincero
    • The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo
    • The Courage to Be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi & Fumitake Koga
    • Indistractable by Nir Eyal
    • Unstoppable Mindset by Alden Mills
    • The 5 AM Club by Robin Sharma