Planning fallacy
The planning fallacy is underestimating how long tasks will take. It can lead to rushed or late work.
Definition
People often plan based on best‑case scenarios and forget about delays. Adding buffers and breaking tasks into small steps helps. This is common for everyone, especially when attention or stress is involved. Compassionate planning reduces frustration.
Why it matters here
We recommend short tasks and buffers to reduce pressure.
In NeuroBreath you can use this term for…
Common misunderstandings
- Only disorganised people experience this.
- You can fix it by working faster.
Related terms
Citations & review
Educational only. External links are provided as copy‑only references.
Written by:NeuroBreath Editorial Team·Editorial team
Reviewed by:Evidence Review Desk·Evidence reviewer
Editorial roles: Author drafts content · Reviewer checks clarity and safety language · Evidence reviewer checks source quality · Accessibility reviewer checks readability. Meet the editorial team.
Last reviewed
17 Jan 2026
Next review due
16 Jul 2026
Updated
17 Jan 2026
Evidence & sources
0 sources · tiers C
Update history
- 17 Jan 2026contentInitial glossary definition published.
Educational information only — not medical advice. Read the disclaimer.