Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast

The Neuroscience of Procrastination

July 24, 2025
00:00 13:22
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Episode Summary:

If you’ve ever put off a task, knowing it needs to get done, but found yourself scrolling social media, reorganizing your closet, or doing anything but the thing you should be doing, this episode is for you. But here’s the twist: we’re not just talking about procrastination from a behavioral standpoint. Today, we’re diving into the neuroscience behind procrastination: what’s happening in your brain when you delay and how understanding this can help you overcome it.

Quotables from the episode:

  • Procrastination is the act of delaying or postponing tasks, especially those that are important or time-sensitive. Most of us associate it with laziness or poor time management, but it’s actually far more complex.
  • When we procrastinate, we disrupt that God-ordained rhythm, often leading to stress, guilt, and missed opportunities.
  • Procrastination isn’t just a matter of willpower; it’s a battle within your brain. Specifically, it’s a tug-of-war between two parts of your brain: the limbic system and the prefrontal cortex.
  • When we procrastinate, the limbic system overrides the prefrontal cortex. It’s almost like a toddler throwing a tantrum and the parent giving in. But here’s the good news: the more we understand this process, the better equipped we are to address it.
  • There are several reasons why we procrastinate: fear of failure, perfectionism, lack of clarity, immediate gratification, pride.
  • Strategies to overcome procrastination: break tasks into smaller steps, set specific, time-limited goals, use rewards wisely, challenge negative thinking, invite God into your work, practice self-compassion.
  • Friend, if you’ve been struggling with procrastination, I want you to know there’s hope. You’re not alone, and you’re not stuck. God designed your brain with incredible potential, and by understanding how it works, you can make choices that align with His purposes for your life.
  • Procrastination isn’t just about avoiding tasks; it’s often about avoiding discomfort. But growth happens when we lean into that discomfort with faith, knowing God equips us for every good work.

Scripture References:

  • Ecclesiastes 3:1 that ‘there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.’
  • Proverbs 14:23 reminds us, ‘All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.’ God calls us to diligent stewardship of our time and gifts, but understanding these barriers helps us address them with grace.”
  • Colossians 3:23 encourages us to ‘work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.’

Recommended Resources:

Social Media Links for Host:

For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:

Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple

Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson

Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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Meet Your Host
Dr. Michelle Bengtson is a hope concierge! She is a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist, international speaker, and award-winning author dedicated to offering hope, healing, and practical tools for mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. As the host of the top-rated podcast Your Hope-Filled Perspective, she combines her professional expertise with biblical truth to empower listeners to overcome anxiety, depression, and life’s challenges through faith.

A trusted voice in Christian mental health, Dr. Bengtson is the bestselling author of Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor's Personal Journey through Depression and Breaking Anxiety's Grip. With over 30 years of clinical experience, she has helped countless individuals find lasting freedom from fear, stress, and discouragement.

Dr. Bengtson is a frequent media guest on platforms such as Focus on the Family, Life Today, and Moody Radio. Her writing and resources have been featured on outlets including Crosswalk, iBelieve, and Salem Media, equipping believers to embrace God's promises in every season.

Connect with Dr. Bengtson at DrMichelleBengtson.com, where she shares faith-based encouragement, expert insights, and free resources for cultivating a hope-filled life.
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