Introduction

Procrastination has become the norm in an overwhelming world full of distractions. Let’s imagine the benefit of finding a way to break the habit while tackling the root causes. Simon Sinek’s Golden Circle model presents a science-backed framework that breaks the cycle of procrastination using three main questions: Why, How, and What. These questions redefine the understanding of procrastination and unleash motivation. 

What is the Golden Circle model? 

The Golden Circle model was developed by Simon Sinek, the American author and inspirational speaker on business leadership. This model consists of three layers, which lead to a better understanding of motivation and successful actions. It is also highly effective when addressing procrastination. There are three layers: Why, How, and What.

The Importance of the Procrastinated Task

According to Dr. Judson Brewer, a psychiatrist and neurologist, human brains are programmed to receive rewards relevant to efforts exerted. Hence, procrastination persists as long as the reward received is not satisfying enough. Here, Dr. Brewer suggests the “Bigger Better Offer” or “B.B.O.” as a solution to procrastination. This necessitates presenting a fulfilling reward that is internal rather than external. The heart of the Golden Circle presents the answer to this question, i.e. “Why” circle, guiding individuals to a deep purpose behind fulfilling the task. The bigger the purpose gets; the quicker procrastination gets broken. 

How can the Procrastinated Task be Accomplished?

Getting the brain to base the importance of fulfilling the procrastinated task on a supreme purpose is important. It is the first milestone. However, it is not yet enough to put the human brain in the mood to take immediate action. Another circle has to be completed, i.e. “How”. How can the previously assigned purpose be translated into actions to get the procrastinated task fulfilled? The “Five-Second Rule” developed by the motivational speaker Mel Robbins states that the habit of procrastination can be seized when taking action within the five-second window. Counting down from 5 to 1 activates the prefrontal cortex of the brain responsible for making decisions. So, this pushes individuals to take decisive actions to break the cycle of procrastination. 

What will be Achieved when Completing the Procrastinated Task?

In this case, fulfilling the procrastinated task itself is the big prize. In the meantime, this stage can be utilized to reflect on the whole process to come up with constructive feedback. Strengths can be reinforced while weaknesses can be tackled for better performance in the future. Surprisingly, when following the same procedures to fulfil tasks that are not even procrastinated, the results are shockingly marvellous since they are based on science-backed steps.

Conclusion

In summary, a powerful science-backed model is presented by Simon Sinek’s Golden Circle, leading to breaking the habit of procrastination. Developing a better understanding of the procrastinated tasks, based on the Why, How, and What questions, leads to maintaining deeper values and taking more actionable steps. Eventually, this improves productivity.