Overcoming Procrastination through Planning

Frank Wieber, Peter M. Gollwitzer

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

Procrastination is addressed from the perspective of the psychology of goals, looking at how people may procrastinate with respect to the typical tasks people need to tackle in pursuit of goals. Moreover, a strategy to overcome such procrastination is suggested, namely, the formation of specific if-then plans (implementation intentions): when, where, and how one intends to initiate a goal-directed action that one is at risk of putting off. After explaining how implementation-intention effects come about and examining several moderators that might limit their effectiveness, research on implementation intentions relevant to the problem of procrastination is discussed, including evidence from critical populations and contexts. Finally, interventions to improve motivation are suggested as a way of enhancing the effectiveness of implementation.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationThe Thief of Time
Subtitle of host publicationPhilosophical Essays on Procrastination
PublisherOxford University Press
ISBN (Electronic)9780199776306
ISBN (Print)9780195376685
DOIs
StatePublished - May 1 2010

Keywords

  • Goal intention
  • Goal setting
  • Goal striving
  • Implementation intention
  • Motivation
  • Procrastination
  • Self-regulation

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Arts and Humanities

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