Procrastination

Techniques > Resisting persuasion > Procrastination

Method | Example | Discussion | See also

Method

We’re all good at putting off some things, so be such a person, putting off decisions, meetings, and agreed-upon actions. Focus you skills on excuses and things that prevent you from agreeing or acting for the other person.

When faced with things you do not like, find other things to do. When asked to do something, claim you have more important things at hand.

Example

Yes, I know it's important and I'll do it just as soon as I've finished this.

Sorry, I'd love to help, but the boss has got me on some very important other work.

You're right. I haven't done it yet.

Discussion

Procrastination puts off today what could be done tomorrow. It also puts off things that are way overdue. As such, it is a method of avoidance.

Many people have a rolling wave of procrastinated work that is always going to be done tomorrow. You can also use this deliberately to put people off, by purposely procrastinating the work that they want you to complete.