Why Do I Only Start at the Last Minute? Understanding Task Initiation and Building Supports That Work

Why Do I Only Start at the Last Minute? Understanding Task Initiation and Building Supports That Work

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A Live & Recorded webinar

Why is starting so hard? Explore task initiation, executive functioning, and practical strategies that reduce barriers and support neurodivergent people.

Online event is booked via Humantix here andis held via Zoom

Why Do I Only Start at the Last Minute? Understanding Task Initiation and Building Supports That Work.

The webinar will be recorded and all ticket holders will receive a viewing link that will be live for 30 days

Good to Know Info:

• The webinar presentation will aim to be about 1 hour long and then there will be time for questions for those attending. Please note that the Q & A time will not be recorded to protect people’s privacy
• All tickets are a donation and donations will be going to support Autistic Inclusive Meets (AIM) and Minnesota Immigrant Rights Action Committee (MIRAC)
• This webinar uses a donation-based ticket system. At checkout, please choose the donation amount that feels right for your circumstances. Donations are non-refundable.
• The live event is on Thursday October 1st from 11 AM – 12.30 PM (BST/London)
• Your joining link (via Zoom) is in the email you receive upon booking and will be sent again by me a few days prior

“I know I need to do it… so why can’t I just start?”

For many neurodivergent people, difficulty getting started on tasks isn’t about laziness, poor motivation, or a lack of care. Task initiation is a complex executive function that can be affected by overwhelm, uncertainty, perfectionism, demand avoidance, sensory needs, working memory, emotional regulation, and the way our brains process motivation.

In this webinar, we’ll explore why task initiation can feel so difficult and why waiting until the last minute is often an adaptive response rather than a choice. We’ll challenge common myths about procrastination and look at what is really happening beneath the surface.

Drawing on current understanding of neurodivergent experiences and executive functioning, you’ll learn practical, strengths-based strategies that look to reduce barriers and make starting tasks more achievable without relying on pressure, shame, or willpower.

Whether you’re supporting children, young people, adults, or reflecting on your own experiences, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of task initiation and approaches you can begin using straight away.

You’ll learn about:

• What task initiation is and why it is different from motivation.
• Why many neurodivergent people struggle to get started, even when they want to.
• The hidden barriers that contribute to “last-minute” working.
• Why pressure and deadlines sometimes help (and why they often come at a cost.)
• Practical supports and environmental changes that make starting easier.
• Compassionate approaches that replace shame with understanding

This webinar is for parents, educators, therapists, workplace professionals, and neurodivergent adults looking for practical strategies grounded in understanding rather than compliance.

Who is Autistic Inclusive Meets (AIM)?

Autistic Inclusive Meets is a not-for-profit organisation created by autistic people to enable families with autistic children, and autistic individuals to get out into the community and socialise in an accepting, inclusive environment with like-minded peers.

We provide support and advice to families and individuals, promote acceptance of autism through education of the general public, and protect autistic rights by campaigning against autistic mistreatment.

Who is Minnesota Immigrant Rights Action Committee (MIRAC)?

From their webpage

MIRAC is an all-volunteer, grassroots, multiracial, and multinational immigrant rights mass-movement organization. MIRAC fights for legalization for all, an end to immigration raids and deportations, an end to all anti-immigrant laws, and full equality in all areas of life.

Terms & Policies
By registering for this course, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

• Intellectual Property: All webinar content and accompanying materials are the intellectual property of Laura Hellfeld. They may not be recorded, reproduced, shared, or distributed without prior written permission.
• Educational Purposes: This webinar is provided for general educational and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to replace personalised medical, therapeutic, or other professional advice.
• Participant Responsibility: Participants are responsible for how they choose to apply the information shared during the webinar. Laura Hellfeld accepts no responsibility or liability for any outcomes arising from the use or misuse of the information provided.