Do you remember the last time you didn’t want to do something that was important and went ahead to watch a movie, just to escape the reality? Or went out to eat something, or to do anything but that important work? That’s a clear indication of ‘Escapism’.
Escapism is an act of seeking comfort and distraction from the realities of life. It includes ways of entertainment, sleeping, or even daydreaming(your fantasy stories of fighting terrorists in your school, surviving on an island all by yourself etc.). The ones suffering from escapism also procrastinate a lot. Extending deadlines, not wanting to do what is needed to be done, doing work at your sub-par performance, all of these are the indicators of procrastination.
So the question arises, How do we deal with Escapism and Procrastination? The answer to which you’ll find here. While occasional breaks from your work and daily routine are harmless, it becomes a concern when it transforms into procrastination, which hampers personal growth and productivity.
The Escapism Conundrum
Escapism can manifest through various mediums – from binge-watching TV shows, scrolling through social media, or immersing ourselves in novels and movies. These activities temporarily transport us to a different realm, providing a break from the challenges and responsibilities of our daily lives. While there is nothing inherently wrong with seeking an escape, the problem arises when it interferes with our ability to meet our obligations and pursue our goals.
Procrastination, on the other hand, is closely related to Escapism. It is an act of delaying important tasks for instant gratification through distractions. These distractions serve as a means to escape the pressure and discomfort associated with the pending tasks. However, this cycle perpetuates itself, leading to a sense of failure and unfulfillment.
Understanding the psychology behind escapism is crucial. Escapism is often driven by a desire for pleasure, a longing for control, or an attempt to avoid discomfort. Our brains are wired to seek pleasure and avoid pain, making escapism an attractive option to momentarily satisfy these instincts.
Transforming Escapism into Motivation
To combat the negative effects of escapism, we need to transform it into a constructive force that propels us toward our goals. One way to achieve this is by aligning our escapism with our dreams and aspirations. Rather than using escapism as a means to escape reality, we can use it as a tool to visualize and fuel our desired future.
Define your Dreams and Goals
Begin by clearly defining your dreams and long-term goals. These could be related to your career, personal development, relationships, or any aspect of your life that you wish to improve. Understand what drives you and what you aspire to achieve.
Engage in Purposeful Escapism
Select forms of escapism that align with your dreams and goals. For instance, if you dream of becoming a writer, reading fiction or exploring creative writing can be a productive form of escapism. It allows you to immerse yourself in a world that resonates with your dreams and fuels your creativity.
Visualize Your Dreams During
While engaging in your chosen form of escapism, consciously visualize your dreams and goals. Use this time to imagine the life you wish to lead, the achievements you aspire to, and the person you aim to become. Let these daydreams inspire and motivate you.
Extract Motivation from Escapism
After indulging in your escapism, take a moment to reflect. Extract the motivation and excitement generated from your daydreams and use it to fuel action. Channel this newfound energy into concrete steps that align with your dreams.
Practical steps to escaping Procrastination
Once you’ve harnessed the motivational potential of escapism, the next step is to combat procrastination and transform dreams into actions.
Set Clear and Achievable Goals
Break down your dreams into achievable, manageable goals. Define specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) objectives. Having a clear roadmap provides direction and diminishes the overwhelming feeling that often leads to procrastination.
Create a Routine and Structure
Establish a daily or weekly routine that incorporates dedicated time for working towards your goals. Having a structured plan allows for better time management and minimizes the chance of falling into procrastination traps.
Minimize Distractions
Identify your typical distractions and take proactive steps to minimize them. Turn off notifications, create a dedicated workspace, or use time management techniques such as the Pomodoro Technique to stay focused.
Practice Self-Compassion and Discipline
Be kind to yourself during this process. Understand that overcoming procrastination is a journey, and setbacks are normal. Cultivate self-discipline by setting boundaries and holding yourself accountable for your actions.
Reward Your Progress
Acknowledge and reward yourself for each milestone you achieve. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement will motivate you to continue taking action.
Conclusion
Escapism is a double-edged sword that can either lead us astray into procrastination or propel us towards our dreams. The key lies in understanding how to harness the motivational power that escapism offers. By channeling our fantasies and dreams into action-oriented motivation, we can escape the clutches of procrastination and pave the way to a fulfilling and purpose-driven life.
Remember, it’s not about escaping reality, but about using escapism as a stepping stone towards the reality you desire. Embrace your dreams, visualize success during your moments of escapism, and let that energy guide you towards making those dreams a reality. With determination, discipline, and a strategic approach, you can escape the chains of procrastination and march confidently towards your aspirations.
