Why do we procrastinate so much in recovery?

In this episode, I unpack the six key reasons why procrastination shows up during sobriety and how we can gently work through it:

Six Reasons We Procrastinate in Recovery:

1) Low Dopamine Tolerance

Our brains are used to quick dopamine hits from alcohol. Without that, even basic tasks feel boring and unrewarding. I share ways to build motivation through small wins and habit stacking.

2) Nervous System Dysregulation

Sobriety means feeling everything again. Overwhelm can trigger a freeze response, making even simple tasks feel impossible. I talk about how to regulate your body and borrow safety from others.

3) Learned Helplessness

After repeated failures, we start believing we can’t succeed. I dive into how this mindset forms and how to break the cycle with messy action and micro wins.

4) Fear of Failure

Trying and failing feels unbearable, so we avoid trying at all. I share how to reframe failure as data and growth, not proof that we’re broken.

5) Fear of Success

Success means change, and change can feel threatening. I explore how fear of growth can lead to self-sabotage and how to embrace expansion safely.

6) Inner Critic Paralysis

That voice in your head telling you you’re not good enough? It’s trying to protect you—but it’s keeping you stuck. I offer ways to quiet the critic and take imperfect action.

Access the AB Process Course

You can find Kate on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rewiredsober/

Work with Kate: https://linktr.ee/KateVitela

Email Podcast: team@katevitelacoaching.com 

Mentioned in this episode:

Rewired Sober Group Coaching Program

https://kate-vitela.mykajabi.com/rewired-sober-coaching-program