Burnout, Procrastination, or Just Laziness?

By Kelly Lloyd, Therapist at VIVA Therapy

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As I look at my to-do list, I notice myself choosing the shorter, easier tasks – the ones that require little focus. Writing this blog, for example, kept getting delayed. Every time I sat down, I could only focus for a few minutes before feeling resistance or that familiar “I can’t be bothered” voice creeping in.

Lately, I’ve found myself procrastinating with work, putting off studying (which I usually enjoy), and instead reaching for crime novels or rewatching my favourite comedy shows.

Through some solo reflection – and supervision, which always offers me a space to check in with myself – I realised I was feeling low and deflated. But why? I was sleeping a lot, still feeling tired, struggling to concentrate, and carrying a flat mood.

At first, I wondered: Is this burnout? Or maybe compassion fatigue?

Many people assume that, as a therapist, I wouldn’t struggle with these things – that I’d be living in a permanent “happiness bubble.” But the truth is, therapists are human too.

Is It Laziness? Or Something More?

The critical voice in my head quickly jumped in with comments like “You’re just being lazy,” and “There’s nothing wrong with you, so just get on with it.”

But deep down, I knew these thoughts weren’t fair. They weren’t going to help me feel motivated – they only added pressure and shame.

Laziness means doing nothing, not caring about the outcome, and putting in little to no effort. That’s not what was happening. I was still showing up fully in meetings, still ticking off smaller tasks, and still wanting to do more… just without the energy to carry it through. That’s a key sign this wasn’t laziness at all.

And I know I’m not alone in this. I often hear clients criticise themselves for “not doing enough.” And then together, we can explore:

• The pressures and demands placed on them.

• The expectations they set for themselves.

• How realistic those expectations actually are.

• What they label as “success” or “failure.”

  
  

Unrealistic expectations are one of the quickest routes to burnout.

What Really Causes Burnout?

Burnout isn’t only about working long hours. It’s usually an accumulation of different factors, such as:

• Unrealistic self-expectations – constantly striving for more, while overlooking successes.

• Job insecurity or changing demands – creating pressure to work harder “just in case.”

• Lack of support – feeling isolated, without a reliable or understanding team.

• Lack of recognition or fair pay – leading to resentment and low motivation.

• Work that clashes with personal values – creating inner conflict over time.

When we feel undervalued, unsupported, or misaligned with our work, it chips away at our energy and wellbeing.

The Role of Self-Criticism and Values

In my own reflection, I realised I had been overlooking the small wins and focusing too heavily on “what’s next” or “how to improve.” While growth matters, it’s also important to acknowledge what’s gone well.

I feel fulfilled by my work and it aligns with my values – which helps protect against burnout – but I still carry that nagging “I should be doing more” voice. Sound familiar?

Even with flexible hours, I’ve learned that preventing burnout isn’t just about scheduling. It’s about boundaries – leaving work behind at the end of the day and making space for proper rest.

For me, that sometimes means giving myself permission to switch off and maybe watch something I enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Burnout can creep up quietly, disguised as procrastination or self-criticism. It’s not about laziness – it’s about imbalance, pressure, and forgetting to recognise your own worth.

If you’re noticing these patterns in yourself, try asking:

• Am I holding myself to unachievable standards?

• Am I skipping over my successes?

• Do I feel supported and recognised?

• Does my work align with my values?

And most importantly – what small steps can you take to rest, restore, and protect your wellbeing?

For me today, it's permission given and time for a break with my favourite comedy show. 

• 📚 Further Reading

• What’s the Difference Between Procrastination and Laziness? – Psychology Today

• Burnout Explained – BUPA

• Burnout Report 2025 – Mental Health UK

• Compassion Fatigue: The Toll of Caring Too Much – Verywell Mind

About Me 

Kelly Lloyd, Therapist

I’m Kelly Lloyd, a Gestalt therapist at VIVA Therapy. I support adults who are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or disconnected – often in response to the demands of modern life and also in relation to autism.

I offer online sessions and work collaboratively with my clients to help them develop boundaries, self-awareness, and emotional resilience.  You can work with me by getting in touch here.