RESEARCH INTO THE WOMEN’S PROBLEM OF “DELAY IN LIFE” SYNDROME

Abstract

The article presents the results of a study of the problem of the “postponed life” syndrome in women.This is a common psychological phenomenon, when important goals, dreams and desires are postponed for an indefinite “later”, usually with the explanation “it’s not time yet” or “first you need to change something in yourself or your life”. It differs from ordinary procrastination in that it concerns not individual tasks, but an entire lifestyle. For women, this problem is often exacerbated by the influence of cultural and social scenarios: the expectation of starting a family by a certain age, caring for children and parents, meeting standards of beauty and “femininity”, as well as the need to combine several social roles at the same time.Additional factors are perfectionism, fear of criticism, dependence on other people’s evaluation, economic instability, experience of violence or trauma. The “postponed life” syndrome can turn into a woman’s behavioral strategy when postponing life becomes a habitual way of making decisions. What is especially dangerous is that the “postponed life” syndrome imperceptibly deprives a woman of a sense of personal agency – the ability to influence her life here and now. Postponing life for an indefinite period significantly reduces the quality of life, can lead to emotional burnout, depression, and loss of meaning in life. Sometimes women postpone studies, sports, and even medical examinations for the future, which can lead to serious problems in the future.Overcoming this condition requires working with one’s own beliefs, learning to live in the present moment, and forming the habit of taking small but regular steps towards what is desired, even if circumstances are still far from ideal. The support of a psychologist, a group of like-minded people, or a circle of close people can become an important resource for restoring inner freedom and an active, fulfilling life for a woman.