I've found that sometimes it's easier to put off a task. At other times, it simply becomes avoidance. ~

I've been able to distinguish between the two by asking:

Does the lack of information prevent the task from being completed?

Will it be less expensive to complete the task later?

Am I holding off to avoid discomfort or to obtain clarity?

Delays typically pay off if they lower uncertainty. In most cases, it doesn't make anxiety worse.

I've tried concrete things:

Put my reasons for delaying something in writing.

Instead of setting a date, set a "revisit trigger."

Try it for five minutes to see what hurts the most.

I'm curious what other people think of this:

How can procrastination be distinguished from strategic delay?

Do you put off making decisions longer than taking action?

Do you use any heuristics?