Explore the connection between childhood trauma, procrastination, and feelings of inadequacy. Learn about CPTSD and its impact on relationships and career. Discover strategies to overcome freeze mode, gain confidence in business, and seek support for regulating the nervous system.
Read more
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
auto_awesome
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
Understanding that childhood trauma can lead to procrastination is vital for healing and overcoming it.
Recognizing freeze mode as a common response to trauma helps in addressing and regulating the nervous system.
Deep dives
Procrastination and Childhood PTSD
People who experienced childhood abuse or neglect often struggle with procrastination due to the effects of childhood PTSD. Understanding that trauma can lead to nervous system changes and a tendency to enter freeze mode can be liberating. Procrastination should not be seen as laziness or a character flaw. Jacob, who wrote a letter, shared his experiences of feeling inferior to others, being verbally abused, and lacking guidance. He had difficulty starting his own business and suffered from under-functioning and a lack of confidence in prospecting. Healing from childhood trauma and overcoming procrastination involves working on the nervous system, learning about freeze mode, and finding ways to regulate it. Building a support network and engaging in activities that bring joy and connection can also be beneficial.
Trauma Reactions and Freeze Mode
Childhood trauma can lead to different trauma reactions, such as fight, flight, freeze, or fun. Freeze mode, where the nervous system is stuck and under-functioning, is a common response to trauma. Jacob's paralysis at the desk and inability to take action may be related to freeze mode. Recognizing this response and understanding its impact on the nervous system can bring about healing. It is recommended to read more about freeze mode and its connection to the central and sympathetic nervous systems. It is also important to differentiate between knowingly squandering opportunities versus being hindered by trauma and a dysregulated nervous system. Jacob is encouraged to explore research, books, and resources like YouTube to develop confidence in prospecting and securing sales.
Addressing Procrastination and Healing from Trauma
Overcoming procrastination and healing from childhood trauma requires proactive steps. Jacob is advised to engage in activities that regulate the nervous system, such as going outside, moving the body, and establishing a morning routine. Learning about dysregulation and incorporating simple techniques like cold water hand washing, foot banging, or box breathing can help bring the nervous system back into balance. Connecting with like-minded individuals, particularly through support groups, can provide a sense of community and positive connection. Jacob is urged to reach out to groups that understand the challenges faced by businesspeople with trauma histories. By addressing his nervous system alignment and fostering positive connections, Jacob can move towards success in his business and experience the joy of a fulfilled life.
All over the world, people who were abused or neglected in childhood are procrastinating, and thinking they are the only one. Freezing up, getting stuck, and struggling to get work done is common for people with CPTSD. And as long as you look at it as just laziness or a character flaw, you might be making the procrastination worse. trauma and the "freeze response" just might set you free. In this video I respond to a letter from a man whose business is at risk of failure because of his trauma-related symptoms.