A study suggests that procrastination may not solely be linked to avoiding discomfort but could also indicate a particular cognitive style associated with creativity.
Researchers investigated the link between procrastination and cognitive styles, suggesting that it may be more complex than merely a tendency to avoid discomfort. Previous reports indicate that individuals who procrastinate may display higher levels of creativity. The study hypothesizes that for some individuals, procrastination could stem from a propensity for prolonged information gathering, exploring various options, and delaying decision-making rather than from laziness.
The study involved 237 adults from several English-speaking countries, measuring procrastination through two separate methods. The first method assessed personality traits related to a general tendency to procrastinate in daily life. The second method included a behavioral measure, where participants had the option to click a button to proceed with the study, yet some delayed this action despite no positive benefits from such postponement.
These findings may have significant implications for understanding procrastination, suggesting it could be viewed as a cognitive trait associated with creativity rather than solely a behavioral flaw. This perspective could lead to new strategies for managing procrastination and appreciating the diverse thinking styles individuals exhibit in their decision-making processes.
