JIMMY DURANTE

Procrastination represents a profound problem of self-regulation. 

There may be more of it in the U.S. than in other countries because we are so nice; we don't call people on their excuses ("my grandmother died last week") even when we don't believe them.

It can be challenging to have multiple interests - you may be critisised for following too many pursuits. Another issue is feeling guilty for giving up an interest half way. Quitting is not giving up. It is choosing to focus your attention on something more important.

Some people simply agree to plans because they feel pressured by the subtle expectation we put on them, even unconsciously. We can help by encouraging them to think about the decision and take some time to come up with an answer.

We need to give them time and space to be able to turn down ...