Putting The Pro In Procrastination

Plain View Episode 8

Photo by Elise Joseph James

In this episode of Plain View, Kristine and Elise explore the hidden emotional layers behind procrastination: fear of failure, perfectionism, unclear goals, identity, and even past experiences with shame. They reflect on the neuroscience and psychology of procrastination, share their personal struggles with avoidance, and offer reframes that are gentler, more productive, and rooted in self-compassion. For our fellow pro procrastinators, this conversation will help you feel less alone and more curious about what your resistance might be trying to tell you.

This episode closes with a short guided practice led by Kristine to help you take meaningful, compassionate action without needing to get it perfect.

Listen on Spotify or Apple.

TiMeStamPs & ToPiCs:

• 0:00 – Intro: We are both “pro” procrastinators.

• 4:30 – Strategic delay vs. procrastination: what’s the difference?

• 7:20 – “I procrastinate the things I care about most.” — Elise opens up about perfectionism and pressure.

• 11:15 – Community question: “How has procrastination impacted your life?”

• 13:45 – Kristine on the research: procrastination as emotional regulation (Sirois)

• 17:30 – Why shame and early experiences (like family and schooling) shape our avoidance

• 22:05 – Community question: “What is something you’re currently procrastinating?”

• 24:40 – Fear of starting, identity, and the myth of “the right time” or “when I feel motivated”

• 28:10 – How boredom and overstimulation make it harder to focus

• 30:40 – Community question: “When you procrastinate, what feelings tend to come up?”

• 34:15 – What might your resistance be trying to protect?

• 37:20 – The emotional weight of undone tasks and the stories we tell ourselves when things are left hanging

• 42:00 – Taking imperfect action, trust, and self-worth

• 46:25 – Community question: “How do you usually talk to yourself after you procrastinate?”

• 48:40 – A small-step practice for building momentum with compassion

rEsOuRcEs mEnTiOnEd iN tHe EpiSoDe:

• Procrastination: What It Is, Why It's a Problem, and What You Can Do about It by Fuschia M. Sirois

• Atomic Habits by James Clear

• The Perfectionist’s Guide to Losing Control by Katherine Morgan Schafler

• How Long Does It Actually Take by Christi Newrutzen on TikTok

CoNnEcT wItH uS:

• @plai.nview on Instagram

• Elise Joseph James — elisejosephjames.com

• Kristine Claghorn — claggie.com

• You can also find us individually over on Substack:

  • Elise Joseph James

  • Kristine Claghorn

If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to like and subscribe! It helps others find Plain View. And if you have thoughts or stories to share on procrastination, send us an email at plainviewworld@gmail.com, or call the Plain View hotline and leave us a voicemail at ‪(925) 247-VIEW. We’d love to hear from you!

💋 LYLAS,
Elise & Kristine