- Perfectionist
- Dreamer
- Worrier
- Crisis maker
- Defier
- Over doer
Perfectionist: This type of procrastinator delays tasks due to an overwhelming fear that their work won’t meet impossibly high standards. They might spend an excessive amount of time on initial planning, research, or small details, or avoid starting altogether because they fear they can’t achieve a flawless outcome. The anxiety of imperfection leads to inaction.
Dreamer: Dreamers are often highly creative and have grand ideas, but they struggle with the practical steps of implementation. They get caught up in the “big picture” and the ideal vision, enjoying the thought of what they could achieve, but avoid the mundane or difficult aspects of breaking down the goal into actionable steps. They prefer to live in the realm of possibilities rather than engaging with the gritty reality of execution.
Worrier: The worrier procrastinates due to anxiety and fear of various outcomes, not just perfection. They might worry about making the wrong decision, failing, disappointing others, or even succeeding and facing new responsibilities. This pervasive anxiety leads them to avoid tasks as a coping mechanism, hoping the problem will resolve itself or become less daunting with time.
Crisis Maker: This procrastinator thrives under pressure, often claiming they “work best under pressure.” They deliberately delay tasks until the very last minute, creating an artificial crisis. This adrenaline rush might provide a temporary burst of focus, but it often leads to rushed, lower-quality work, increased stress, and missed opportunities, even if they manage to meet the deadline.
Defier: The defier procrastinates as a form of rebellion or resistance, either against authority, perceived expectations, or even against themselves. They might feel resentful about being told what to do, or overwhelmed by obligations, and their procrastination becomes a way to exert control or push back. It’s often a passive-aggressive act of non-compliance.
Over-Doer: Also known as the “busy” procrastinator, the over-doer avoids important, often challenging tasks by filling their time with less important, more manageable, or seemingly productive activities. They might appear busy and productive to others (and even themselves), but they are using these activities to distract from the high-priority tasks that truly need their attention. This keeps them active but not necessarily progressing on their most critical goals.
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