In life, we all encounter people who tend to “kick the can down the road.” This phrase refers to delaying decisions, avoiding responsibilities, or postponing actions that require immediate attention. While sometimes postponing a decision is reasonable, chronic “can-kickers” use procrastination as a default coping mechanism, creating frustration and inefficiency in personal, professional, and social relationships.

In this article, we’ll explore what it means to kick the can, how these people sound, why they behave this way, and how to spot them—whether at work, home, or in everyday situations.

What Does “Kicking the Can Down the Road” Mean?

The phrase “kicking the can down the road” originated from the practice of literally kicking a can to avoid picking it up, symbolizing putting off a task that will eventually need attention. In modern terms, it means delaying difficult decisions or procrastinating to avoid immediate consequences.

Key Traits of Can-Kickers:

• Avoidance Behavior: They avoid tasks or decisions requiring responsibility or effort.
• Deflecting Accountability: They shift responsibility to others or make excuses.
• Short-Term Thinking: They prioritize immediate comfort over long-term consequences.

Why People Kick the Can

Before diving into how they sound, it’s helpful to understand why people engage in this behavior. People kick the can for a variety of psychological, emotional, and situational reasons:

1. Fear of Failure

• Reason: They may avoid decisions out of fear that their choices could lead to failure or criticism.
• Example: A manager keeps postponing implementing a new strategy, fearing that it might not work and damage their reputation.

2. Decision Fatigue

• Reason: After making too many decisions throughout the day, people may delay important choices to avoid mental strain.
• Example: A team leader delays approving project proposals because they are overwhelmed with other tasks.

3. Conflict Avoidance

• Reason: They fear confrontation or uncomfortable conversations, choosing instead to push off decisions.
• Example: A friend avoids discussing boundaries in a strained relationship, hoping the issue will resolve itself.

4. Lack of Confidence

• Reason: People unsure of their capabilities may delay action, thinking they need more time or information to proceed.
• Example: A colleague postpones submitting a report because they doubt its accuracy, even after multiple reviews.

5. Short-Term Comfort Seeking

• Reason: The human brain naturally prefers comfort, leading people to postpone tasks that seem unpleasant or complicated.
• Example: Someone postpones budgeting or paying bills because it’s tedious and stressful.

How People Who “Kick the Can” Sound

People who kick the can often use specific phrases, tones, and excuses that signal delay tactics. Their language reflects avoidance, deflection, and minimization of urgency.

Here’s how they typically sound:

Common Phrases Used by Can-Kickers

1. Vague Promises:

• “Let’s circle back on that later.”
• “We’ll cross that bridge when we get there.”
• “I’ll get to it soon—I’m just swamped right now.”

2. Excuses for Delay:

• “I need more time to think it through.”
• “The timing isn’t right at the moment.”
• “I’m waiting on more information before making a decision.”

3. Shifting Responsibility:

• “Why don’t you handle this for now?”
• “I’m not the right person to make that call.”
• “Let’s see what management says first.”

4. False Reassurances:

• “Don’t worry, it’ll all work out.”
• “It’s not urgent—let’s revisit it next week.”
• “We’ve got plenty of time before the deadline.”

5. Overcomplicating the Issue:

• “This is more complicated than it seems. We should wait until we fully understand it.”
• “Let’s hold off until all the pieces fall into place.”
• “There are too many moving parts right now.”

How to Spot a Can-Kicker

People who frequently “kick the can” exhibit recognizable patterns in their communication style, decision-making habits, and behavioral tendencies. Watch for these key indicators:

1. Consistent Delays and Excuses

• They frequently postpone deadlines and shift blame when confronted about incomplete tasks.
• Spot It: They miss deadlines repeatedly while giving different justifications each time.

2. Avoiding Direct Answers

• They deflect questions and avoid making commitments in meetings or personal conversations.
• Spot It: When asked for a decision or action plan, they respond with vague promises or open-ended phrases.

3. Lack of Follow-Through

• They promise future action but rarely deliver unless someone pressures them or steps in.
• Spot It: Look for projects that are stuck in limbo with no progress, despite earlier assurances.

4. Chronic Procrastination in Crisis Situations

• Even in urgent scenarios, they choose temporary fixes instead of tackling root causes.
• Spot It: Watch how they handle emergencies—they focus on short-term relief rather than long-term solutions.

5. Conflict Avoidance

• They avoid challenging conversations and prefer to let issues linger.
• Spot It: They are non-confrontational and often redirect conversations when difficult topics arise.

How to Handle Can-Kickers

If you encounter someone who constantly kicks the can down the road, here are strategies for managing the situation:

1. Set Clear Deadlines: Use specific, time-bound requests instead of open-ended assignments.
2. Hold Them Accountable: Follow up regularly and document agreed-upon actions.
3. Use Direct Communication: Avoid vague requests—be clear, assertive, and specific.
4. Create Urgency: Emphasize the consequences of delay to create motivation.
5. Offer Support (If Appropriate): If decision fatigue or lack of confidence is the issue, provide assistance or resources.

Final Thoughts: Managing the Can-Kicking Phenomenon

While kicking the can down the road can be a temporary coping mechanism, chronic avoidance can lead to missed opportunities, strained relationships, and dysfunctional teams. Recognizing the language, behaviors, and patterns of can-kickers can help you navigate these challenges with greater awareness and resolve issues more effectively.

Ultimately, learning to face problems head-on—whether in personal life, work, or relationships—is essential for growth, progress, and trust-building. So, the next time you hear someone say, “Let’s deal with that later,” consider holding the line and bringing the can back.