The Myth of Lazy

Excerpt from Dr. Wang’s article as featured on Psychology Today…

If you’re a high achiever caught in this “lazy” cycle, there are steps you can take to break free. The key is learning to recognize what’s really happening and shifting your mindset. Here’s a simple framework you can use:

Recognize: Start by recognizing when you’re feeling “lazy” and dig deeper into the root cause. Ask yourself, "Am I overwhelmed, anxious, or burnt out?" Understanding what’s behind those feelings can help stop the negative self-talk in its tracks.

Take a few minutes to pause, close your eyes, and identify where the stagnation is coming from—is it fear, fatigue, or something else?

Reframe: Reframe your thinking by challenging perfectionism and setting realistic expectations. Remind yourself that progress is better than perfection, and sometimes “good enough” really is enough. Instead of worrying about finishing a big project, focus instead on smaller, more manageable steps. Remind yourself that you are more than your work.

Set a 20-minute timer and work on just one small part of a task. Allow yourself to stop after that time if needed.

Rest: Practice self-compassion. Allow yourself to take breaks without guilt, knowing that rest is essential for long-term productivity. High achievers often overlook the importance of relaxation, but giving your brain downtime is crucial for avoiding burnout.

When you’re feeling tired or discouraged, extend yourself the kindness you would offer a good friend. Acknowledge your hard work, validate your feelings, and remind yourself that you deserve rest.

The next time you find yourself binge-watching TV or endlessly scrolling, ask yourself—am I burnt out, or am I feeling anxious about something ahead? Understanding the reason behind your behavior is the first step toward breaking the cycle.

By letting go of perfectionism, recognizing that you are more than just your work, and giving yourself permission to relax, you can break the cycle and regain a healthier balance between work and well-being.

To read the rest of the article, go to Psychology Today.