The perception of procrastination and its influence on creativity

Abstract

This thesis explores procrastination not as a behavioural flaw but as a complex, emotional, and often misunderstood experience, particularly within creative contexts. While traditional literature frames pro- crastination through metaphors of clocks, to-do lists, and laziness, this study challenges such portrayals by studying its psychological, emotional, and strategic elements. Drawing from academic studies, histor- ical accounts, and psychoanalytic perspectives, the thesis reframes procrastination as a multidimensional behaviour influenced by fear of failure, perfectionism, and non-linear thinking. The study uses three surveys: an institutional dataset from a UK design school, an independent online questionnaire, and a handwritten-response survey. The research highlights how creative students perceive procrastination as both a cause of stress and a tool of incubation. Responses highlighted contradictions: procrastination was described as frustrating but necessary, paralysing yet productive. These findings, combined with recent research on active procrasti- nation, incubation, and self-efficacy, show that delay can sometimes foster creative outcomes under the right psychological conditions. “What Does Procrastination Mean?”, the design project that goes with it, offers a visually reflecting alternative to common media representations. The book is presented in a leporello format and includes handwritten reflections, illustrations, and personal metaphors. Rather than providing solutions or mo- tivational advice, it invites readers to understand procrastination and encourages more nuanced discus- sions about the role of delay in the creative process.