PPP 366: Human Nature Delays

What Are “Human Nature Delays”?

• The feeling of being unqualified, not ready, or not quite equipped.

• Waiting for motivation to strike before you start.

• Setting lofty goals without small steps.

• Letting discomfort, fear of failure, or overwhelm hold you back.

These are universal. They show up for adults and children alike. What saves us sometimes is external structure—deadlines, people believing in us, goals with check‑in points.

The Intention‑Action Gap Explained
The intention‑action gap (also called the value‑action gap, or intention‑behavior gap) is the difference between what we mean to do and what we actually do. It’s a well‑studied concept in psychology: many of us intend to follow through, but life, distraction, competing priorities, or simple inertia get in the way. 

That gap often feels wide, with “best intentions” on one side and the outcome we want on the other—with procrastination, hesitation, or delay in between.

How This Shows Up in Piano Students

• “I’ll practice after dinner.”

• “I’m too tired today. I’ll double up tomorrow.”

• Waiting until lesson time to work on something, rather than reinforcing what was just learned.

• Letting busy schedules or other commitments push practice aside.

What Parents Can Do: Systems & Strategies

Here are proven, practical strategies to help close the gap—both for students and for you as parent/support.

Setting Realistic Expectations

Because we know human nature delays, it’s important to set expectations that are fair: for children, for yourself. Recognize that a younger piano student won’t have developed full self‑discipline; motivation may fluctuate. Help them by providing structure, being consistent, helping with reminders. It’s not about perfection; it’s about progress.

Putting It Into Practice: What to Try This Week

1. Pick one small habit (trigger) to tie practice to.

2. Try the 5‑minute rule at least once this week.

3. Remove one obstacle (make the piano more accessible, get the music open, etc.).

4. Chat with your child’s piano teacher if something feels stale or disconnected. Maybe try a new piece or style.

5. Celebrate every small win you see—open books, even short practice, consistency.

Conclusion

Human nature delays—it’s not laziness, it’s part of being human. But delay doesn’t have to define us or our piano kids. With intention, small steps, structure, and a little kindness toward ourselves, we can move from “I intend” to “I did.”

Let today be the first step. Sit at the piano. Open the book. Do the thing you’ve been planning. And celebrate that it’s begun.