Happy People Harness Procrastination Strategically, Harvard Researcher Says

Procrastination often carries a negative reputation, but Harvard social scientist and happiness researcher Arthur Brooks says delaying tasks can sometimes work to your advantage—if done intentionally. In his new book “The Happiness Files: Insights on Work and Life,” Brooks explains that “deployed strategically with certain creative tasks, a little procrastination can actually be beneficial,” while cautioning that routine responsibilities should not be delayed.

Brooks points to an ancient Egyptian perspective that views procrastination in two ways: as laziness or as “waiting for the right time.” To use procrastination productively, he offers five tips:

Assess your habits: Occasional, purposeful procrastination can help, but chronic delay can harm well-being. “Ask yourself whether the way you delay tasks makes you feel out of control or unhappy,” he writes.

Practice mindfulness: If you struggle with chronic procrastination, Brooks suggests limiting distractions and fully immersing yourself in your current task.

Woman resting on a desk full of open books | Source: Pexels

Delay creatively, not excessively: For idea generation, Brooks waits a day after developing an article concept before writing. “I jot down my idea, think about it, sleep on it, go for a walk, and then start on it,” he notes, emphasizing not to postpone for a week—just a day or two.

Use stalling wisely: Avoid wasting time doomscrolling. Place your phone in another room or take a walk to enhance creativity.

Leave tasks enticingly unfinished: To maintain momentum, pause projects when you’re excited to continue. “Start the next day by finishing up and moving on to the next task, and repeat the pattern,” Brooks advises.