The report you've been putting off is due tomorrow. It's time to buckle down, open your computer ... and check your phone. Maybe watch your favorite YouTube channel? Or maybe you should just start in the morning? This is the cycle of procrastination. So, why do we procrastinate when we know it's bad for us? Explore how your body triggers a procrastination response, and how you can break the cycle. [Directed by Vitalii Nebelskyi, and action agency, narrated by Jack Cutmore-Scott, music by Stephen LaRosa].

TED-Ed: Why you procrastinate even when it feels bad

Why you procrastinate even when it feels bad

Procrastination stems from our body’s response to perceived threats, turning tasks like reports into mountains of stress.

To conquer procrastination, embrace self-compassion. Break tasks into steps and address the stress, not just the deadline.

Procrastination, often fueled by negative emotions, leads to anxiety and stress, yet ironically acts as a stress buffer.