The Procrastination Equation by Piers Steel: Summary and Notes

Learn how to solve procrastination with one simple equation

“proximity to temptation is one of the deadliest determinants of procrastination.”

Rating: 8/10

Related Books: Eat That Frog, Solving the Procrastination Puzzle, Procrastination: Why You Do It, What to Do About It Now, The Now Habit

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The Procrastination Equation: Short Summary

Many struggle with procrastination and have no idea how to beat the vice. The Procrastination Equation by Piers Steel shows the fight against procrastination is winnable. Apart from dissecting the nature of procrastination, Steel shares time-tested strategies on how to take back control of your life and achieve your wildest dreams. An excellent book, full of actionable advice that will change your life for the better.

The Portrait of a Procrastinator

Procrastination is an irrational delay. It happens when we put off things even when we know that in doing so, we are going against our best interests. Procrastination is characterized by delays and self-deception.

The tendency to procrastinate is widespread, with over 95% of people admitting to the habit. Compared to their peers, chronic procrastinators are likely to be unemployed, working part-time, or lagging in many areas of life.

The number one reason that makes people procrastinate is impulsiveness, not perfectionism. Impulsiveness is the tendency to live in the moment and wanting it all now.

Impulsive people have little ability to endure short-term pain for long-term gain. They are more likely to feel anxious over tasks and go straight to procrastination.

The Procrastination Equation

“What can be done at any time is often done at no time.”

Procrastination has three basic components:

• Expectancy. When we expect bad things to happen, we tend to procrastinate. For example: salespeople put off calling potential customers because they think their sales…