Yes, creative procrastination is different

Creatives everywhere delay the work that matters most, but research suggests creative procrastination is distinct from other forms.
A blonde woman in long black sleeves is sitting at a desk looking bored. She is experiencing procrastination.

Perfectionism, identity and fear of failure can all feed the procrastination loop. But creative professionals may need different solutions than most.

“Procrastination in creative work is often tied to fear – fear of not being good enough, of failure, or even of success and its consequences,” explains a recent review from the McGraw Center for Teaching and Learning. “Because the work is so closely tied to identity, avoidance becomes a form of self-protection.”

Unlock Padlock Icon

Unlock this content?

Access this content and more

David Burton is a writer from Meanjin, Brisbane. David also works as a playwright, director and author. He is the playwright of over 30 professionally produced plays. He holds a Doctorate in the Creative Industries.