“You may delay, but time will not.”
Benjamin Franklin
Procrastination is one of the top killers of productivity, but did you know it also inhibits creativity? While there are a few ways that procrastination can boost creativity (such as allowing your mind to wander and creating diverse experiences), it is important to understand that the cons outweigh the pros.
Negative Effects of Procrastination on Creativity
- Decreased motivation
- Reduced skill development
- Increased stress
- Lower work quality
- Negative emotional impact
- Missing deadlines
- Increased mental clutter
Other Ways to Improve Creativity
- Set aside time for creative activities
- Try new hobbies
- Travel
- Implement relaxation techniques
- Challenge yourself
- Brainstorm with others
- Regularly take notes or journal ideas
Creativity creates benefits in all fields. Researchers use it to come up with new ways of testing theories. Machinists use it to develop better ways to solve technical problems. Accountants use it when trying to determine how payments should be applied. Plus, a creative mind helps with everyday life, such as entertaining guests, helping kids through “big feelings,” and deciding on date night. Keep those skills sharp today. Putting it off will slow your momentum. You will have to work that much harder in the future.