Creative Process and Procrastination: Why Your Brain Needs Time to Warm Up

A reader recently asked me a question that made me smile because I relate to it so deeply.

She wrote:

“How do you clear your thoughts before writing? I love writing, but the first 10–15 minutes are always lost trying to figure out how to begin.”

Honestly? I completely understand.

It often takes me 30 minutes to an hour before I actually begin writing. I check emails. I look at my calendar. I put music on, then turn it off. I reorganize my desk. Sometimes I convince myself I have absolutely nothing useful to say.

For years, I thought this meant I lacked discipline.

Now I see it differently.

The Creative Process and Procrastination Often Go Together

A few years ago, I took a continuing education class taught by a professional writer. He admitted that every time he sat down to write, he became frustrated because it took him nearly an hour to settle in and begin.

Then he realized something important:

The procrastination was part of the creative process.

That was a huge “aha” moment for me.

Many people assume that creativity should happen instantly. But our brains often need transition time before they can fully focus and produce meaningful work.

Sometimes our minds need space to wander before they can organize thoughts clearly.

Research even suggests that certain types of procrastination can support creativity and problem-solving because the brain continues processing ideas in the background.

You can read more about that here from Harvard Business Review.

What My “Warm-Up Time” Looks Like

Before I begin writing, I often think:

• “This topic is too hard.”
• “I have nothing to say.”
• “I can’t do this.”

Then I have to intentionally shift my thinking:

• “You can do this.”
• “You know this topic.”
• “You’ll figure it out once you begin.”

That emotional warm-up is part of my writing process too.

Now, instead of fighting that first hour, I plan for it.

I usually carve out three-hour writing blocks several times a week. I already know that part of that time will be spent settling my mind before the real work begins.

And strangely enough, that “unproductive” time is often necessary for the productive part to happen.

Why This Matters for Parents

This idea applies to children too.

Sometimes parents see procrastination and immediately assume laziness, defiance, or lack of motivation.

But often, kids are trying to regulate their brains before beginning difficult mental work.

One mother in my parenting class complained that her daughter would do cartwheels, pet the dog, and wander around the house before sitting down to homework.

But maybe those activities were helping her prepare mentally.

Kids frequently need movement, sensory input, breaks, or downtime before they can focus effectively.

Sometimes spacing out on the couch or staring out the window is not “doing nothing.” Their brains may actually be resetting.

According to experts at Understood.org, children often procrastinate because tasks feel emotionally overwhelming, mentally demanding, or difficult to organize.

The Difference Between Helpful Delay and Avoidance

Of course, there is a difference between healthy mental preparation and endless avoidance.

Our goal as parents is not to eliminate all procrastination.

Our goal is to help children learn:

• how to start,
• how to regulate themselves,
• and how to move forward even when something feels difficult.

Sometimes kids need support breaking tasks into smaller steps.

Sometimes they need movement first.

Sometimes they simply need a few minutes for their brains to shift gears.

That does not mean they are lazy.

What Parents Can Say Instead

Instead of:

• “Stop wasting time.”
• “Why are you procrastinating again?”
• “Just sit down and do it.”

Try:

• “It looks like your brain is having trouble getting started.”
• “What would help you begin?”
• “Do you need a quick movement break before you start?”
• “Let’s think of the first small step.”

That shift in language helps children feel supported instead of criticized.

Final Thoughts

I think many forms of creative and intellectual work require some wandering before focus appears.

For me, taking a walk, changing locations, reading something inspiring, or simply giving myself permission to settle in can make a huge difference.

And I think the same is true for our kids.

Sometimes what looks like procrastination is actually preparation.

And understanding that can help us approach both ourselves and our children with a little more patience.

You may also enjoy:

• Why Whining Pushes Our Buttons (And What Actually Helps)
• The One Parenting Shift That Reduces Power Struggles

What do you think?

Comment below — I would love to hear your thoughts.