Break free from delay and reclaim your life

Struggling to start important tasks, even when you know the consequences? This practical guide draws on clinical expertise and research to tackle procrastination at its roots, all grounded in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).

Overcoming Procrastination dismantles common myths about motivation and willpower, exposing delay as a struggle with emotional regulation, rigid thinking and environmental triggers. You'll discover why distant deadlines feel harmless, how negative automatic thoughts fuel avoidance, and why 'productive procrastination' sabotages your goals.

Inside, you'll find:
· A step-by-step framework to help you understand why you delay.
· How emotional regulation and motivation work, and what keeps avoidance habits locked in place.
· Self-assessment tools, reflective exercises and real-world examples.

From managing digital distractions and setting meaningful goals to using activity scheduling, this book provides practical solutions for overcoming self-doubt, perfectionism and stress. Discover how to break the intention-action gap, reward yourself effectively and build routines that last. Whether you want to improve academic success, productivity at work, or simply stop delaying what matters, this guide offers a compassionate, structured path forward.

Overcoming self-help guides use clinically proven techniques to treat long-standing and disabling conditions, both psychological and physical. Many guides in the Overcoming series are recommended under the Reading Well scheme.

Series Editor: Emeritus Professor Peter Cooper