You’ve heard the expression, “The best things come to those who wait.” While this may be true, let’s not get this confused with, “The best things come to those who procrastinate.” Waiting implies being patient until the right thing comes along. Procrastination is waiting while a good thing has already presented itself. In the book, The Richest Man in Babylon, procrastination is described as, the habit of needless delaying where action is required.

There are several reasons one may choose to procrastinate. Among them may be fear of failure, poor time management, overwhelming stress or you prefer working under pressure. In the following four paragraphs, I’ll explain each of these and offer a remedy by which each can be rectified.

Fear of failure: Sometimes when provided an opportunity to try something to which we’re unfamiliar, we get inundated with thoughts of whether or not it will be successful. We may choose not to try because we fear embarrassment or ridicule from family, friends, colleagues or onlookers. It is important to keep in mind that you are not alone and you’re not the first. Every great accomplishment was met with fear of failure. The key to winning is pressing pass that fear so that your greatness can be realized. And as for those who would ridicule you, never mind them, they’ll be your biggest fans after you succeed.

I don’t have time: You get 24 hours in a day every day. You’ll use them all. Whether or not they are put to good use is up to you. If you’re putting off doing something that will benefit you for the sake of something that will not, you really have your priorities mixed. Sometimes it pays to start with the most challenging project first. Because you’ll burn will power by forcing yourself to do it. Although your will power may be depleted by the time you’re done, you’ll get a new surge of energy from the endorphins released because you accomplished something worthwhile.

Stress: Overwhelming stress can be crippling. It can stun your ability and desire to get things done. You’ll want to start unloading stress as soon as possible. Start by asking yourself this question: Can I do anything about it? If you can, then get busy doing it. If you can’t, let it go regardless to what it is. Also, simply starting can often times relieve stress. The project that you’re delaying may have you stressed or can add to your stress. Shift your paradigm to begin looking at completing the project as a stress reliever rather than a stress causer.

Working Under Pressure: Believe it or not, many of us are addicted to working under pressure. We’ll have time to get things done in a timely manner, yet we will procrastinate until we approach the deadline. We then kick into high gear, work extra hours, lose sleep and make whatever sacrifices necessary to get the project done. The problem comes when new priorities that are more pressing come up unexpectedly. Now you have a stressful situation that could have been avoided. If this is you, try changing your deadline. For example: If your deadline is the 20th, set it for the 10th. This will help to ensure that you have adequate time to resolve any unexpected issues.

Whenever you are faced with the decision to procrastinate, remember the following quotes: “Patience is a virtue, but procrastination will hurt you.” “Never put off until tomorrow, what can be done today.” Let’s not forget the Nike slogan, “Just do it!” And of course this wouldn’t be complete without the famous words of Larry the Cable Guy, “Get’r Done!”

Eric L. Lipsey
www.TheLink.biz