48 Case Studies 01: Procrastination

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Mable is a highly successful woman who has achieved much in her career and personal life. She is married to Biff, and together, they share a strong faith and a stable marriage. However, despite her many accomplishments, Mable struggles with persistent procrastination, particularly when it comes to tasks that require personal discipline or have less accountability. This recurring problem has caused tension in her marriage and added stress to her daily life.

Life Over Coffee Devotions

• 31-Day Marriage Devotion
• 31-Day Parenting Devotion
• 31-Day Young Adult Devotion

Mable describes her procrastination as an ongoing frustration. She acknowledges that she often delays tasks until the last moment, creating unnecessary pressure for herself and others. While she thrives in more structured environments and enjoys the recognition that comes from achieving goals, she struggles with smaller, less glamorous tasks, often putting them off until they become urgent.

While supportive, Biff has expressed concerns about how Mable’s procrastination affects their relationship. He feels that her delays often place additional stress on him, as he must adjust to accommodate her last-minute efforts to meet deadlines. Though he loves her deeply, this dynamic has introduced a recurring tension in their otherwise healthy marriage.

Mable is seeking counsel to address this issue. She 
wants to understand why she excels in some areas while struggling in others and how she can overcome procrastination in a way that aligns with her faith and strengthens her marriage.

Case Study Questions

1. Where would you begin in counseling Mable about her procrastination?
2. What questions would you ask Biff to understand how this affects their marriage?
3. Why do you think Mable excels in some areas but struggles in others?
4. What ruling motives of her heart might be contributing to her procrastination?
5. How would you guide her to address these heart issues biblically?

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Rick Thomas

Rick launched the Life Over Coffee global training network in 2008 to bring hope and help for you and others by creating resources that spark conversations for transformation. His primary responsibilities are resource creation and leadership development, which he does through speaking, writing, podcasting, and educating.

In 1990 he earned a BA in Theology and, in 1991, a BS in Education. In 1993, he received his ordination into Christian ministry, and in 2000 he graduated with an MA in Counseling from The Master’s University. In 2006 he was recognized as a Fellow of the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC).