Let’s talk about Akrasia

Yes, there’s a concept known as “akrasia,” which refers to acting against one’s better judgment, or essentially self-sabotaging. This can manifest as procrastination or “wanted idleness,” where a person chooses inaction or indulgence over productive activities, leading to negative outcomes such as stress, gluttony, or self-sabotage.

When someone is idle by choice—whether due to avoidance, fear of failure, or a lack of motivation—this idleness can cause stress because tasks pile up or remain undone. Over time, this can trigger coping mechanisms like overeating (gluttony) or other self-destructive behaviors. In a cycle of avoidance, individuals might indulge in short-term pleasures (such as eating or distractions) to temporarily escape their responsibilities, which only worsens stress and reinforces self-sabotage.

Breaking this cycle often requires self-discipline, clearer goals, or addressing underlying fears or anxieties that fuel the “wanted idleness.”