do you have a PROCRASTINATOR? Helping your teen unlock their potential (part 1 of 2 in the teen procrastination series)

​Watching a bright child procrastinate can be frustrating and exhausting. Parents often assume it’s laziness, but procrastination is usually a sign that a teen feels stuck. Here’s how to help your child discover their “why,” reduce stress, and begin moving forward.

Why Procrastination Hurts More Than It Seems
As a parent, it’s painful to watch a capable teen spin their wheels. What starts as “I’ll do it later” often snowballs into frustration, anxiety, and emotional distance. Parents come to me saying:
“I’ve tried everything.”

“We’ve begged and pleaded.”

“I just want them to be happy.”

When procrastination takes over, it creates stress not just for the student, but for the whole family.

Every Teen Has a “Best Way” of Working
We all have our own patterns — morning vs. night energy, learning by listening vs. doing vs. seeing, needing quiet vs. needing background noise. Teens are no different.
One 9th grader I coached was constantly distracted at the dining room table. She felt frustrated and overwhelmed — even to the point of tears. When I asked where she wanted to study, she admitted it was her room.
Her mom was hesitant at first, but after rearranging the space to remove distractions, the teen thrived. Within weeks, even her teacher noticed positive changes.

Tools Must Fit the Student, Not Just the Parent
Just because you love your wall calendar or planner doesn’t mean your teen will. Some need digital reminders, others want colorful planners, others do best with sticky notes or checklists. The key is finding what clicks for your child.

Don’t Overlook Health & Habits
Sometimes procrastination isn’t about willpower — it’s about wellness. Poor sleep, too much screen time, lack of movement, or even nutrition can all play a role. When the body and mind are out of sync, focus and motivation suffer.

Helping Teens Step Out of the Comfort Zone
Roy T. Bennett once wrote: “If you always do what is easy and choose the path of least resistance, you never step outside your comfort zone. Great things don’t come from comfort zones.”
Procrastination is often the “easy” path. Teens know they’re capable, but they may not know how to take the first step. Helping them discover their deeper why — their motivation — is what unlocks lasting progress.

Final Encouragement for Parents
In order to finish what you start, you have to start. For teens, that’s the hardest part. With the right tools, structure, and accountability, your child can break the cycle of procrastination and move from potential into success.

👉 If this resonates with you, know you’re not alone. I coach parents and students through challenges like procrastination every day — helping families find less stress and more success.