Procrastination is not a time-management problem, but an emotion-management problem, according to research. It's often linked to mood and emotional regulation, rather than willpower or forcing oneself to do something. Procrastination can be seen as an "emotion-focused coping strategy" to deal with negative emotions, where the brain avoids tasks that are perceived as stressful or unpleasant. This avoidance technique is similar to anxiety and depression, and can lead to feelings of guilt, self-criticism, and perfectionism. To overcome procrastination, it's essential to manage emotions and develop a more compassionate mindset. Mindfulness meditation, cultivating a "monkey mind" with tasks, and focusing on small actions rather than projects can help. By asking oneself "What's the next action?" and engaging with emotions, individuals can break the cycle of procrastination and improve productivity. Treating procrastination as an emotional regulation problem can also lead to improved quality of life.