Procrastination, often associated with lack of organization or laziness, is a complex phenomenon, especially in high IQ individuals. Rather than being a mere time management problem, procrastination can be influenced by neurological and genetic factors, which intertwine with specific personality traits and cognitive processes.
Individuals with high IQs, often characterized by intense perfectionism and an accelerated flow of thoughts, may be more prone to procrastination. The incessant search for perfection, fear of making mistakes and mental rumination can lead to paralysis in decision making and, consequently, to the postponement of tasks.
In addition, neuroscience suggests that procrastination in high-IQ people may be related to how the brain manages energy. The prefrontal cortex, responsible for executive functions such as planning and decision making, consumes a significant amount of energy. In high IQ individuals, hyperactivation of this region, combined with over-thinking and the pursuit of perfection, can lead to a state of mental fatigue, resulting in procrastination as a way to conserve energy.
Studies also point to the influence of genetic factors on procrastination. Variants in genes such as COMT, which is responsible for regulating dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with motivation and reward, may modulate the tendency to procrastinate. Additionally, past negative experiences and anxiety may play a role by activating the stress response system and releasing cortisol, which can lead to fatigue and task deferral.
Therefore, procrastination in high IQ people cannot be reduced to a simple matter of lack of discipline or organization. It is a multifaceted phenomenon, influenced by a complex interaction between neurological, genetic, psychological and environmental factors. Understanding this complexity is fundamental to the development of effective intervention strategies that take into account the cognitive and emotional particularities of these individuals, helping them to reach their full potential. (RODRIGUES, 2024)
Refereencia:
RODRIGUES, Fabiano de Abreu Agrela. Procrastination in High IQ People. Scientific and Academic Journal, v. 4, no. 1, pp. 792-808, 2024.
