If you are like me you find yourself putting things off as long as possible. Sometimes getting started on tasks is almost painful. It means interrupting something you really want to do or it means putting thought into something that seems so hard. Even starting this blog entry was put off for a few days. But often when you get started it's not that hard. Still, getting started can be really difficult.
Often we set a time for when we will accomplish things for way in the future. So for instance, today as I type this blog, it is Thursday. Well I have to pack for a trip that I have on Tuesday. I guess I could wash all my clothes and pack on Monday, right? But what happens if I take today off to just sleep and watch T.V.? Then tomorrow, a friend calls me and says that there is a really fun concert going on. Saturday I have to go shopping for some things for my house. And Sunday is Easter, so we go to church and have family time all day. Well, I still have Monday. Or do I? OOPs!!! I forgot that I have a meeting with someone on Monday morning.... and I have to get my car checked out that afternoon..... and I promised a friend I would help him move after six on Monday. Oh No!!!
My Dad was right when he said procrastination was the thief of time. If I put it off, the one opportunity I have to plan and pack may be lost. Today is a pretty easy going day. Why don't I pack now so on Monday I have extra time just in case things come up. I don't want anyone or anything stealing my time!
To prevent this, make a plan and write your plan down on paper. Consider all of the things that you have to do and want to do before your deadlines. Deadlines are times when things have to get done. Then consider several things that might get in the way of you reaching your deadline. Sometime emergencies beyond your control can prevent you from doing what you have to do. That's why you should factor in time for even these unforeseen events. And lastly, when you find yourself with just a few minutes of extra time on your hands, go ahead and sneak in a little bit of what you have to do early.
Don't find yourself wishing you could get back time. Its true, Procrastination is the thief of time.
Great advice! I too tend to procrastinate and it has burnt me on many occasions. This message is applicable to children as well as adults. Makes we want to go do somethings that I have put off and put off. Nice post!
ReplyDeleteStacie aka "Stacie to the G"