Procrastination never makes problems go away. Have you noticed that?
A leaky faucet never stops leaking on its own. The squeal in my car brakes will get worse. Putting off medical tests is never a good idea.
Procrastination can also be costly. I don’t want to tell you how many home and appliance repairs I’ve put off until the month after the warranty expires.
What about procrastinating on pursuing a dream? It could be to write a book, take a vacation or find a new job. Some excuses just don’t hold water. Like, I’m too old for that. Guess what? In five years I’ll be older. Other excuses revolve around money. Interestingly, if I save $10 a week starting now, I’ll have $40 more saved next month than I would have.
Here’s a big procrastination excuse: time. If I say I don’t have time for something, then find time to watch recorded episodes of House Hunters International, I’m fooling myself.
Oh, the mind tricks we play … and how they hurt us.
Somethings do work themselves out without help. But not many. And sometimes we do need to wait … like for a check to arrive or for God to say “yes.” But that’s not what I”m talking about. I’m talking about putting off things we know we should do for the wrong reasons.
I recently read a book called Heroes and Monsters by Josh Riebock. The author writes: “Everyone can change tomorrow. Everyone solves problems tomorrow. But the only changes that matter are the ones I make today. Tomorrow is the easiest day I’ll ever live. Today is the scary one, which is probably why I’ve spent so much time avoiding it.”
He is right. Why do we think things get easier by putting them off? THEY DON’T!
Procrastination is a complicated issue, but getting to the root of why I procrastinate helps me deal with it. And the reasons are varied.
- Somethings I put off because I just don’t like doing them.
- Other things require more mental energy than I think I have.
- And still other things are hard and painful and scary.
Here’s how I deal with the desire to procrastinate.
- I keep my to-do list short and manageable. Long to-do lists discourage me from doing anything. If you haven’t read about my project management notebook, click here to see how I keep track of all my responsibilities.
- I divide big tasks into smaller tasks. For example, my bedroom closet needed attention but first I had to buy some inexpensive stacking shelves. So the next time I went to Wal-mart I made the purchase and moved that project forward.
- I assign small tasks to a specific day. Instead of doing a lot of things I don’t like on one day, I’ll spread them throughout the week.
- I seek God’s peace for the scary ones. Sometimes we avoid finding out the truth because of fear. This can apply to so many areas of our lives. But the TRUTH is God has already gone ahead of us into these scary places. He knows the future and He’s already got it under control. There is NOTHING we have to handle alone or in our own power.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic. And I’d love to give away a really cute inspirational sign:
If you are reading this in an email, please click here to be taken to my blog. Post a comment with your thoughts and I’ll announce a winner on Wednesday. Please do not hit reply as that will only come back to me.
Grace & Peace,
Glynnis
Thanks for the reminder that God has already gone before me into the ‘scary’ places. It was just what I needed today.
Really helpful thoughts today, and I am pleased to see I am right on track! Just today I took a leap of faith and confronted our brand new VP to ask her to consider me while she is in the midst of sweeping organizational changes. I also made a “To Do” list last week broken up into days of the week, thus spreading out my work tasks over the week. It’s still a little daunting though, all on one page, so I think I’ll follow #1 and just show TODAY’S tasks so I feel like I accomplished something.
I am seconding what Jennifer said – thank you for the reminder that God goes before me. That was something I really needed to hear today!
and that helps too!
I am a repeat offense procrastinator! But I am getting better. Normally I make a list of what HAS to be done that day and that seems to help. To only see what needs to be done that day. I also listen to some inspiring music
Instead of giving in to fear once again and putting this off, I am diving right in and pursuing my dream of having my own photography business! You never know what you can do until you try!
you go, Misty!!! Godspeed!!!
This could not have been more timely! I’ve been putting off several projects for all of the above reasons you mentioned. I plan to start the To do list notebook system ~ excellent idea.
Oh, my, I need this! Thank you.
I have sometimes been labeled the “Queen of Procrastination”. I am so bad about putting off. It drives my husband crazy. I am now trying to tackle one specific item that I procrastinate on and hit it head on. An example, as clerk of our church it is my job to take the minutes of our church’s business meetings. I have been so bad about waiting until the Sunday afternoon of our conference that night, to transcribe and type our minutes. I have made a practice to take care of the minutes immediately after returning home from the business meeting. I feel so freed up on that task when I can do this. I am working on trying to get things done ahead of time.
Perfect timing as I am reading your blog while I put off a task I really don’t want to do!
Thanks!!! Many “scary” places I need to attack….
Oh, wow. This was great, and hit me in so many places. Thanks for putting into words what so many of us probably feel.
This is so true. I am struggling right now with procrastination on several projects at home and I have many excuses for not doing them. Maybe this is what I needed to push me to get them done.
Thanks for the reminder! I’ve been using your suggestions for a project list ever since I read your book, and I’m happy to say I’ve been able to complete many projects that way. I still struggle with procrastinating over things I don’t want to do, or things I’m afraid of (like deciding to go back to college – yikes!).
Procrastinating is new for me, but it seems at times like it’s taken a foothold in my life since my husband’s passing. I start doing something, then stop before getting much done. I think it’s because so much has changed for me that I feel I can’t change one more thing for awhile. Knowing that God has been and always will be with me does make all the difference in my life. Thank you for ministry in helping us get “it” all under control a little more easily.
Change IS hard–of course “bad” change but even good change is. God bless you in this hard season of your life. Remember..it IS a season-
The truth is–anything worth doing carries risk. Knowing that helps us push through.
I think just starting my day with prayer and knowing that i don’t have to be perfect gets me through some tough days. I do make a checklist and try to get all the small things done first, so i can feel like I’ve already accomplished so much. Thanks so much for writing about this- sometimes we think it’s easier to procrastinate, but in truth it can cost us time and money…
Thanks so much for this post, its just what I need today.
I’v been procrastinating on a few things & now the deadline on them is the end
of the week. I now have other things that need attending to & I’m very overwhelmed today.
Blessings,
Janet
I’m right with Kaye! One of my biggest ways to procrastinate is to read really interesting and even helpful stuff – like from your blog – but then never put into practice what I’ve read….. add to your blog one of the main principles from my bible study this week, James 1:22 “Do not merely listen to the word and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” and you can tell God is working on me! Off to do what I should be doing.
I raise my hand-guilty-for reading & not applying ! Thanks for the verse in James.
Thanks for the reminder. I love the quote at the end.
Definitely needed to hear this. I especially liked the quote. There are a lot of things I can’t do right now, but there is no guarantee my health will improve. Even if I only spent 15 minutes (or even just 5) a day on some tasks would soon see progress.
I know how you feel—I want to wait till I feel better to get started, but I could be waiting indefinetely !! So, need to at least make a beginning NOW
Your email came at the perfect time as I am surrounded by my piles that need sorting and laundry to be done as I spent my morning catching up on tv shows as opposed to my tasks. My to-do list continues to grow as I contemplate how to spend my day. I so appreciate your blog and the quote today inspires me to get moving!
Oh, how I needed to hear this. I put things off all the time. I have a list of things to do that just keeps growing…
Thanks for helping me to break tasks down into a more manageable size. I can always find something else to do, if there’s a daunting task staring me in the face.
My husband and I were talking about this last night. We are both big list people, but when the list is long and time is short, neither of us know exactly where to start. I always say, “Just do the next thing”. That helps, but so does your perspective. Thanks!
Boy, you really spoke to where I am! Thank you so much for your words of truth. I would love to have that ‘saying’ hanging in my office!
I took a day off from work to stay home and do my tax return. It’s 3:00 in the afternoon as I’m reading this and I haven’t started on it yet. I REALLY needed this message today. Thanks and I really appreciate your words of wisdom.
Oh, Glynnis, you are speaking right to my heart today. I’ve been praying about a specific medical issue that my doctor told me that we will wait six months before taking further action (if warranted) and I’ve been trying to figure out what to do about it. Your thoughts: “Putting off medical tests is never a good idea” just hit me to the core and really has me thinking if I need to get a second opinion on this issue.
And, my goal was to start writing a book this year. Do you think I’ve started that little project yet? Nope. I will say that I have gotten better about my faith blogging, but the book thing is a big, scary task that I haven’t found the courage to tackle yet. Thank you for your encouragement. I love the sign! Thanks for the chance to win!
I love it when I get lots of things accomplished but I will be the first to admit that I have a big problem with procrastination! It keeps me from doing the fun things because the hard things haven’t been done.
This was a great reminder of what many of us know deep down. The thing that struck me is how much mental and emotional energy I waste thinking about the things that I don’t want to do instead of getting them done quickly and out of the way. Surely that would be much more pleasant than letting them linger in my head!
Your thoughts today hit home! Must move -literally- to avoid osteoporosis (runs in family)…love your contests, hope I win the sign : )
It’s like Bill the Cat going “Ack!” It’s easy to procrastinate especially if it’s no fun to do. But the frustrating part is that I find myself a week later, kicking myself for not just doing it in the first place!!!
I never thought about some of what I procrastinate about is because it scares me. It get nervous at doctors’ offices so my annual exams are always a couple of months late. I definitely needed this reminder today since my physical is due next month. THANKS!
I can sympathize with being intimidated by looking at the whole picture instead of individual tasks. Doing that has, in the past, brought on depression and near anxiety. I would do nothing because of that intimidation and because I thought if I can’t DO IT ALL , I can’t DO IT AT ALL. For some reason, it helped me when a friend asked me if I had OCD (Obessive Compulsive Disorder), to which I would have answered “no” until she told me (and my doctor confirmed) that someone with OCD feels so completely overhelmed by the whole that she cannot proceed at all. Knowing there was a REASON I am the way I am was liberating. I have since started medication that evens out my moods, and it has helped tremendously. NOT THAT EVERYONE WHO PROCRASTINATES HAS OCD – but I thought it might be helpful to some.
Ok, procastination must be put to rest…. I need to keep on “decluttering” eventually it will not be there anymore! “O Happy Day” Yes, thank you for your post today!
This is so ‘dead on’. We often tend to procrastinate because we are SO afraid of failing! What we don’t realize is that we fail when we don’t start at all. Thanks for the reminder!
This has helped me act on something TODAY that I’ve been putting off b/c its “scary”. Thank you for the encouraging words that let me know God is already there to see me through.
Thank you! This couldn’t have come at a better time for me. God Bless you!
It’s hard. I am overwhelmed most of the time. I used to do lists, but now I just do stuff when and where I see it needs doing if it is something that will only take a few minutes.
I focus too much on the low-hanging fruit, and I neglect those bigger tasks that don’t need to be done today, but do need to be done at some point – like the cluttered closets. Overall, though, my running lists of the low-hanging fruit are so neverending that I can’t just relax and play Legos with my children. Gotta check off those tasks! For me it’s a daily process of letting go of my own expectations and remembering that God didn’t pack my day full of chores – I did.
This REALLY helped!! Thank you so much!!
Like everyone before me…this is a pretty big issue with me; not necessarily the little everyday ones it is the big “scary” ones that I don’t deal with well.
I appreciate your reminder
Your posts always give me a helpful whack-upside-the-head. I was first introduced to your blog through your 15 Day De-Cluttering Challenge. Your project management system has indeed lightened my attitude and ability to keep things in perspective and “in a safe place.” My overloaded brain thanks you! The project book and reasonable daily to-do list still leave me all to free to procrastinate, however! So I am still working on that. Thanks for your uplifting blogs. God really is love – and the source of all good, and the abundant provider of all good. Thank you for being one of his good messengers!
One thing that I learned about procrastinating is it doesn’t take any less time to do the job tomorrow than it will today but sometimes because of circumstances it can take longer and need to be done at a more inconvenient time. Love your blog and ideas!
Thanks for this post today. I really needed it, especially that line in #4 – “But the TRUTH is God has already gone ahead of us into these scary places. He knows the future and He’s already got it under control.” – AMEN!
I often find myself procrastinating little jobs because there is something more fun I could be doing, but it’s the big stuff I procrastinate on out of fear of the unknown. Your post was a great reminder that there is nothing unknown to God, so there is no reason to start tomorrow when He is already working on today. I might as well join him
Glynnis —
As always, thanks for the motivating pep talk I needed. I am a bad procrastinator and I cannot begin to count how many times it has caused more work for someone I love or cost money. Then, the guilt sets in and it’s a vicious cycle. Your book has helped me remember to take that extra step to finish something. Thank you and God bless all that you do! I’m so glad I found your website. Amie
I have been using a planner to schedule in daily activites and to dos for the kiddos and I, its been helping to make sure things get done and not be so overwhelming. Thank you for sharing all your inspiration and writing your books!! God has given you a wonderful gift!!
What a fantastic, inspiring writing! I knew when I read the title that this was something I needed to read right away! When I read that sentence that ended with “House Hunters Intl” to my daughter, her immediate reaction was, “That sounds like you, Mom!” I have been improving in this area, but I find I do much better on a daily basis with this area of my life if I make sure that I start my day with that precious Quiet Time with the Lord. It’s like I can think more clearly and am less likely to become overwhelmed. Breaking projects down into smaller steps is a great idea, too… I think I need to read this again and take notes! Thanks so much!!
(Re-posting because I didn’t mean to be anonymus): What a fantastic, inspiring writing! I knew when I read the title that this was something I needed to read right away! When I read that sentence that ended with “House Hunters Intl” to my daughter, her immediate reaction was, “That sounds like you, Mom!” I have been improving in this area, but I find I do much better on a daily basis with this area of my life if I make sure that I start my day with that precious Quiet Time with the Lord. It’s like I can think more clearly and am less likely to become overwhelmed. Breaking projects down into smaller steps is a great idea, too… I think I need to read this again and take notes! Thanks so much!!
All so true. It is comforting to know that I’m not alone and there is hope! I have been implementing small changes since your challenge at the beginning of this year and beginning to see some fruit from it. I still have a long way to go (and a short time to get there in some respects as our fourth baby is due in just a couple of months!) and can sometimes still feel overwhelmed, which is when I’m most likely to give into feelings of defeat & procrastination! This was a timely, ENCOURAGING message for me ~ thank you!
Oh, this was awesome. I procrastinate on my devotions, because I’m “too busy”…and then the evening comes and I’m too tired…and I “promise” to do it tomorrow, and do extra. That doesn’t work. On a practical level, I kept procrastinating on decluttering my closet. Now that I’m actually cleaning it, the task is enormous, because I waited too long!!! Love and hugs from the ocean shores of California, Heather
I have had the opportunity to share verses from Joshua and the end of Deuteronomy, when the Lord says be strong and courageous, but I forget to apply them to my life, too. God knew where the people of Israel were going just like he knows where we are going. He was with them and ahead of them just like he is with and ahead of each of us. What a comfort! I want to hear these things over and over again. I need to be reminded of them– those things along with God’s grace in forgiveness through his Son, Jesus. So, thank you for sharing these comforting words and thank you for sharing your wisdom in organizing not only our surroundings, but also our minds and thought processes.
This article was a great reminder to plunge into the tasks we delay doing. I am less likely to procrastinate if I give myself a due date. If someone asks me to do something, I ask when do you need this done. When I am making my to do list, I always write a date when it must be done. That really motivates me.
Thank you for the encouragement today. It’s been a difficult year for my husband and I after leaving the ministry and I feel overwhelmed at times by decisions that need to be made and then waiting patiently for answers. The main thing that I need to work on from what I read today, is trusting in God for peace. I’ve struggled w/ feeling that He has abandoned or forgotten us. In my heart I know that he hasn’t, but my mind questions why all of this has happened. Thanks again for encouraging me. I know I needed it!
Thanks for this reminder! Definitely what I needed to hear. God is speaking to me in so many ways – I just have to slow down and remember to listen to Him.
“But the TRUTH is God has already gone ahead of us into these scary places. He knows the future and He’s already got it under control. There is NOTHING we have to handle alone or in our own power.”
Ouch, that hurt! I needed that kick in the back end. Thank you for those words of encouragement. Now, on to applying them…something I should have started back in Nov 2011.
Last week, Frances Roberts’ devotional “Come Away My Beloved”, grabbed me. She said “Don’t be deceived by doubts and be not detained by fears”. Wow! It spoke volumes – just as you are doing today! Many times I procrastine because I’m just being lazy and more times than I would like to admit, it’s because of doubt and fear. Thanks for sharing and reminding me, that today is the day to do “it”…. Live and Love.
Your posts always encourage me. Thank you.
God is so good! He gives us the right message at just the right time. The past 6 weeks have been extremely busy for me to the point that I’ve neglected many projects that are now on tight deadlines. The to-do-list has gotten so long that I feel paralyzed! Thanks for the reminder to break things down into smaller tasks and celebrate the small steps. Thanks also for the reminder that God has everything under control.
Thanks for this reminder. When I first saw it,I said “read this later.”. Glad I didn’t wait too long.
There are lots of things on my to do list and breaking them down to small steps helps so much. Thanks for reminding us that God is there, directing our steps. It’s comforting to know that no matter what we attempt, He’s got us.
Such a helpful post. I allow fear of failure to keep me from moving forward/procrastinating. Thanks for sharing so honestly on this hard subject. It really resonated with me.
This post hit.me.hard! I have been procrastinating and plain out wasting my time a lot lately. I do think it’s because I have a fear of failure, of change and of the unknown. I will be praying about this and giving it to God. Thank you for sharing this!
You always say it so well. I have a dream within my heart to fulfill and I have been unfortunately putting it off. Not the right time, I am not equipped to do so, etc….. I have been praying to the Lord to give me the strength to do it, do something I never in a million years thought I could do. This BLOG encourages me to get started, don’t hold off another day and for that I Thank You!
-Colleen G.
This is an awesome post! Glynnis, I read your book and took your January series to heart. Got all the clutter off my counters, out of my head, out of my closets. At the tail end of de-cluttering, we decided to put our house up for sale and seize our dream of moving to the country. Since the cleaning and de-cluttering is done, I am finding the whole process far less stressful than it could be. I had mental time to take on a speaking engagement in two weeks. Showings are a breeze because there isnt much to pick up. And since we even have our financial house in order (thanks to hubby taking over the books awhile back) we were even able to negotiate a purchase of a dream country property before selling our current home. Your inspirational sign has great personal meaning for me through this time, although it hardly feels like a risk as we have seen God’s hand of blessing at every step along the way. Your Encouragement blessed us by helping us be in the right place at the right time. We sure appreciate you around here!
I read your post as I took a “much needed” break from cleaning my house. I find that I start to get ailments, get hungry, sleepy or preoccupied when I need to clean my house. God always has what I need when I need it. I told myself that I would not get on the computer today, because it can suck me in and then I’ll be too tired to clean. Well, my nails were starting to break so I decided to put some polish on them to protect them when I cleaned and while they dried, I figured that it wouldn’t hurt if I just checked my email. And right in my face was your post about procrastination, oh dear sisters I need prayer cause this is a doozy for me. Thanks for the post, nails are dry back to the grind!
I so agree with what you write about… This past weekend I decided that I was done with clutter and started with tackling our office. After two days of organizing, purging and cleaning (and quite a bit of grumbling from my husband and 2 daughters) – it is clean and I feel much less stressed when I walk in there. I also tackled all of our other projects and broke them down into small chunks that we can tackle as the week or weeks go on. At least now we will be able to put a check mark next to something each night and not worry so much about all the work that is waiting for us “tomorrow”. Thank you for always sharing and offering such wonderful common sense advice and encouragment! God Bless you and your family…
I hate to be stressed, and so I procrastinate doing things; then, I’ve waited until the last minute and have to scramble like a maniac to get the project done…which makes me stressed and yearning for rest, so I procrastinate doing more things that would make me stressed. Sigh.
I’m tired of the vicious cycle and want victory over it. I’m ready to “turn north,” but I feel so weak and overwhelmed. I know that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me, and I need to be more conscious of replacing fear and negative thoughts with that truth.
Thank you for reminding me that God has gone before me into the scary places.
I’ll make a list. One bite at a time!
Great story today Glynnis…..and don’t I know these thoughts well….I’m the MASTER of procrastination….for all of those reasons!!!
Love your hints….in fact, I have recognised my problem and started doing just as you suggested and broken the task up into smaller chunks….needing to attack my sewing room mess, I prayed for guidance, bought some drawers and then when they arrived, started one pile at a time! How easy the task seems with divine help!
Blessings
Wendy b :O) xo
Lists are great! When I look at my list and notice there are not a lot of things crossed off yet I have done numerous other things, no matter how small, I add those extra things onto my list and then cross them off! At the end of the day, I can see I really did accomplish quite a few things.
Did I ever need this!! I am the Queen of Procrastination. I actually fall for what seems easy at the moment all the time. That caused me to have way too many clothes and shoes, because it was easier to buy something more than find something I already had. This caused me to have a cluttered home, because I didn’t want to deal with putting things away. This caused me money problems because I didn’t want to take the time to keep my spending in check. I didn’t want to take the time and effort to eat healthier choices, so I gained too much weight. I didn’t want to take the time to be active, so I gained more weight….
I am doing better at the causes of the mess, but, I still shudder at dealing with the mess itself. I feel like I can’t do anything really substantial, so I forget about it. Lord, help me to plug away, a little at a time, and to remember that small changes do make a difference.
AMEN!
Carissa in eastern Iowa
Be encouraged today, Sister—-you are not the only one–your shoe fits my foot too. Doesn’t that make sense-a step at a time (with the Savior by our side)–it’s got to be progress.
This really hit home – thank you!
Wow. This spoke to me…AGAIN…. Do you read my mail? And do you think procrastination is coherent with the artistic/creative gene? I think it must be. *Shrugs shoulders :0)
Thank you for your ministry and timely posts. I once read that we should leave space between the lines of our to do list for what God has for us to accomplish. It’s so easy to forget that God orders our days…we live under the illusion that we are in control of our days! Your articles and advice are timely and well thought out. Thank you for sharing your hard earned wisdom with the rest of us. Blessings, Terri in AZ
I ALWAYS put things off….even projects I WANT to finish. When I do MAKE myself do them,I ALWAYS say…”Why didn’t I just do it…..it didn’t take long at all!” I love your blog….you always say the right things!
One thing I procrastinate about is calling someone back for fear I will get overcommitted – so hard to say no to requests for my time. Fear that I won’t stay strong and can’t say no. And then i risk that the other person will be mad at me for taking so long to reply.
Wow. Did God speak my name to you before you wrote this post? He must have. It is SCARY how your post is about what a friend and I were talking about today (before we saw the post)! Even down to certain key words that we both had spoken. I always claim to want a flashing neon sign to tell me whether a dream is just a selfish dream of mine or if it is God-inspired and God-lead. I think your post was the first flashing neon sign I’ve recognized.
Thanks! Seriously, thanks. More than you know.
I love how you stated that God has already gone ahead of us and taken care of those scarey things and he knows the outcome before we do! I enjoyed your 15 day series on decluttering and have since done some spring cleaning and have gotten rid of things that I don’t need to hold onto and my house is taking shape! I appreciate all the tips on this subject; but mostly how you have given us reasons for why we may put things off until tomorrow!
Yes,
So inspiring and motivational to hear that we can begin with small changes today as GOd as our Point guard clearing the way !
” BE the Change YOu want To see ” ! I believe that was Ghandi’s quote and i’m borrowing it today !
Thank you Ms. Glynnis for the blessings you not only count but share as well !
: ) hugs, L
Please pray for me as I face procrastination head-on.
Thank you for your insight and helpful advice Glynnis. I appreciate all the time and energy you put into helping us live productive and free lives:) Great ideas!
thanks for your post! i actually brought a 3-ring binder along to start my organizational system (am tired of writing and re-writing lengthy to-do lists and then getting frustrated when the list stays so long). i also put all of my to-do lists from work on the “toodledo” website – not i try not to look ahead too much and just focus on what is TODAY.
WOW! This topic is exactly what my friend and I decided to do this week. We work at an elementary school and it’s Spring Break. Usually we overbook out time and always have long lists, expecting too much just to get discouraged when we don’t get them done. So, we decided to make a short list each morning, being sure to include something we really want to do, reading, organizing but to work on that big project that we have been putting off a little each day so maybe it won’t be so overwhelming. I usually stress about the week and beat myself up the next day if I don’t get a lot accomplished. Thanks! I needed to be reminded that God is already in tomorrow!
Thank you for your helpful advise. Since I retired I am so disorganized and frustrated by my lack of ‘time’. I am actually just procrastinating to keep away from the ‘scary’ things. HE is already there, so I am making my new shorter list and stepping out.
I LOVE A CLEAN HOUSE HOUSE BUT I HATE CLEANING IT. THEREFORE WE LIVE IN CLUTTER ALL THE TIME TO THE POINT WE WON’T HAVE ANYONE IN THE HOUSE. WE ARE BOTH RETIRED 67 YEARS OLD AND PROCRASTATE CLEANING HOUSE. WE LIVE IN A MESS . I HATE IT BUT I AM OVERWHELMED BY IT. THANKS FOR YOUR SUGGESTIONS. I LOVE THE TV SHOW I AM RIGHT AT HOME. SAD BUT TRUE. I DEFINATLELY NEED THE PLAQUE IN MY OUR HOME. GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS KAY
To Kay — You don’t have anyone in your home EITHER ? I feel the same embarrassment. I’m gonna use this blog & prayer to make an effort to freedom.
When faced with overwhelming amounts of tasks, I sometimes have to make myself still have morning quiet time and devotion with God. I used to skip that time when I had a lot to do but I would never seem to get to the bottom of my pile. When I take the time to start my day with God though, I have found that HE makes the time for me! When this first priority has been completed, I always start with my kitchen and make my way out. This way, the room that I spend the most time in is organized and inviting.
Why put off to tomorrow what can be done today…it’s an oldie but a goodie. And it is one I use all the time on my children. “I’ll do my homework LATER.” Then later comes! Do we really think the things in our lives are going to go away?
I love the little sign!
Thank you for reaffirming the need not to procrastinate as God is always looking out for me! Just the message I needed today!!
Thanks for the great advice. Exactly what I needed to hear. Knowing that God has go e before me helps make the scary things a lot less scary!!
Glynnis, I feel that you are writing directly to me~ in your blog and your book. I have been stagnant for so long but I have been making small improvements since beginning your series! Thank you I’m believing the Lord is making big changes in my family, my home and work. How I wish I could meet you at the local diner for coffee and conversation! Thank you, thanks for being open to God’s call.
Bernadette
I second that—I often think “How did Glynnis know that about me?” As another post said”how did you get inside MY head? I think Glynnis has made herself available for the Lord to speak to our need as her blog addresses my concerns too.
I’ll add my thanks for reminding me that God goes before us. Nothing is beyond His power, nothing is unknown to Him.
I often feel like the queen of procrastination, but wear my crown in shame. Smaller to-do lists have not worked so far, but I’m continuing to search for solutions that fit my personality and lifestyle – as well as turning to the Lord for the attitude I need. Thanks for being here along the way!!
I just finished Spring Break, and had a huge “to do” list. Guess what? I hardly did a thing – I was sick. During a 2 week Christmas Break, same thing – huge “to do” list and hardly got to it – I was sick! We need to be kind to ourselves and take the rest we need (that’s what I needed obviously) – better in time for teaching! I haven’t given up on the “to do” list, but I find I need my family members on board too.
This is so true!!! I need to read this article about every other day to keep motivated:)
Thanks for your help! Andrea
I know all too well about fear and procrastination and the dentist. It’s “amazing” how a traumatic experience when younger can instill a sense of paralyzing fear. However, I realized my procrastination in this area was really saying that in my own strength I can’t face it. But by God’s grace I faced this fear and was humming “In Christ Alone” as the dentist was drilling. Even though I still don’t like going to the dentist, I don’t feel that bondage anymore which procrastination brought on.
Thank you Liz for reminding me what I too believe—it is ONLY by God’s grace that we CAN face our fears–fear in the plural (ha ha) as I seem to have so many !
How true. Often think that tomorrow I’ll have more time and energy but papers and stuff just keep piling up. Have to remember that time is a gift we receive every day but we need to spend it wisely. Thanks for you blog. I just need to put some of the things into practice.
What you wrote is exactly what I am always doing…putting things off instead of doing it in a timely fashion. Your advice was exactly what I needed to hear. Thank you.
So many of us are maxed out with our daily schedule that it is hard to fit in the projects on our TO DO list. It is comforting to know that God cares more about how and why we do things, and does not judge us like we judge our selves measuring up to “how much we got accomplished” I am a producer so I enjoy “doing” but have to remind myself that our witness depends on WHY we do things.
Refocusing on Living for HIS Glory:)
Keep up the organizing gals….it is fun and rewarding:)
I have been putting off calling about a job application. I keep making excuses, but the bottom line is I am scared they will tell me that I am not qualified or didn’t get the job. Thank you for reminding me when I needed it today that GOD already knows. He has this planned out for me. Regardless if I get the job or not, every thing is in His hands. I can rest in HIm knowing He has it all under control. There is no need to be scared.
When were you inside my head? I was *just* thinking about this topic over the weekend and realizing that the things I put off for fear are rarely as frightening as I think they are going to be. The dread I experience in the time I waste “putting things off” is far worse than the actual experience. (think dentist, accountant, etc.) … well, unless I totally hose myself by waiting toooooo long, which hasn’t happened to me yet. It is another case of “fixing my eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of my faith” and remembering what and Who is important to gain perspective on the mundane of daily life on earth.
Thanks for the encouragement, Glynnis, and for speaking to all of us who get overwhelmed by “stuff,” procrastinate, struggle with getting organized, etc. God bless!
thanks Glynnis — This definitely resonates with me. I have gotten better and mainly since, like you said, it can really cause problems if I don’t. However, my personal nemesis is clutter so your last blog was also very good, just had no time to comment on that one. Since I DIDN”T procrastinate about the taxes this year — I am NOW off to sort a box . THANK YOU SO MUCH — That sign looks awesome!
This was great! My to-do lists always seem to be overwhelming….and I seem to tackle the ‘easy’ items first…leaving the things that continue to overwhelm me on there.
I need to tackle the ‘harder’ items one at a time to finally tackle them once and for all!
I also struggle with perfectionism, which is one of my issues with procrastination…If I can’t do it the way I think it needs to be done or should be done, I put off doing it. *sigh*
I understand Rebecca. I have trouble deciding what to do & how to do it as I want it just so—-which usually leads to not even doing it at all. And since I never start–I never finish–which leads to guilt, disappointment, etc.So let Glynnis encourage us. I think she was sent by God as she is the only one that seems to” get it” & will speak out to help us along too.
Usually it is feelings of being overwhelmed that keep me from starting a big chore that I have procrastinated time and again. Once I begin And keep momentum, it seems to go much better. Fear of not finishing is more of a concern also. Thank you for your blog.
I absolutely know how you feel–it does seem overwhelming doesn’t it—yhats why I love this blog & Glynnis. Hang in there.
Assign tasks to different days is what I need to do and stick to it. By the time I get home from work, though, I have a dog to walk and dinner to prepare for myself and then clean up. After doing all that, there isn’t a whole lot of time left and besides I’m usually too tired. I keep telling myself I’m going to do it one day, that day just hasn’t come yet.
Thanks for the reminder!
Yes, I understand too Nancy, By the time I finish with my pets & get ready to start my day, I’m tired & in the evenings on days I work, I get behind because I come home tired. I get discouraged & give up. But….our day is coming. Thank you Lord for Glynnis & for sending me encouragment thru other women on this blog.
my home is a metaphor for my life and every time i put off putting it in order, i only hurt myself!i have found that helping others order their lives gives me much greater clarity and focus when i return home-thanks for the encouragement!
The Holy Spirit gave you these words to inspire us {ah me}. You see, I recently had shoulder surgery and couldn’t sleep for a long time because of the contraption that I had to wear and went to therapy and oh yes, I have 5 children {one married with 1st grandbaby on the way} and my husband is in the military reserves, which takes him from home fairly often. But I got it all under control. Right? Wrong. I forgot to pay my health care premium last month. Went 2 days past my grace period without realizing what had happined, until this morning. Now I am praying that my payment will be accepted. Someone prayed Isaiah 43:25 for me and Psalm 5:12 that the Lord will show favor and restore the insurance. Another friend reminded me that it is not our perfection but the Lords, and that His mercy triumphs over judgement. So, as I claim Isaiah 26:3, I also need to slow down and give Him and chance to reign over my life, not letting ‘discombobulated business’ run my life.
Thanks so much! I was going through my inbox and saw your post for today and my first thought was “oh, I’ll wait and read that tomorrow” then something lead me to open it and read it. That something was someone…God! I struggle with being an all or nothing thinker but I read the Getting Things Done book about 2 years ago and have begun piece by piece to implement it. When I opened the blog about your project folder, I just knew this was confirmation that this is where the Holy Spirit is leading me. I am a lawyer and I have many cases and I know this is what the Lord is wanting me to do to keep them all on track. Your blog has been a blessing to me each day.
What a timely post for me….Thank you so much for sharing this today! It is so easy to put off until tomorrow what really needs to be done today. I know that God has done all things before I can even imagine what I need to do. I know that with God’s help I can do all things! Be blessed because you are a blessing to someone today!
Smiles & Blessings Abound,
Robin
I believe procrastinate is my middle name. For me..it seems like everything I NEED to do is so over whelming. So I tend to not do it..or put it off til the last minute and them I am so STRESSED trying to get it done. Great tips on your post.
This is SO TIMELY and exactly what I needed! Thank you so much and thank you Lord!
EAT THE FROG!! Yep, when I have something in my day that I DO NOT WANT TO DO (Like eat a frog…) I do it FIRST, early in the day.then it is DONE.Then I do not have to give any more thought to it…that wears me out: just knowing I have to do it eventually.And it gives me a boost to tackle the rest of the day….cuz the “worst” is over.
Thanks Ladies, this has been so sweet to my tattered soul.
Just a note…Eat the Frog is a book on beating procrastination by Brian Tracy.
All too true…and I’m holding on to the thought that God has gone before me. I try to remember I’ll never find time, I have to make time. We really do have to be clear about our priorities. And I have to do things like turn the sounds off my phone and computer, so like Pavlov’s dog, I don’t automatically respond to the stimulus. God help me!
What wonderful God’s timing is and how brave you are to tell us the TRUTH!
If I think of putting off what God wants us to do today as a sin, it changes my perspective regarding fear or whatever else is holding me back. James 4:17 (NIV) “If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.”
To April What a wonderful motivator ! I don’t care myself if I put it off-Its easy to do, BUT, if I offend my Lord–that’s different–I don’t want avoidable sin in my life that I’m too afraid to stop.
Oh I used to be such a risk taker and enjoyed the victories and the failures. Now as a mom to three little ones, I find that I let fear take over and stop me from experiencing God’s blessings. Pray for me, please…
Thanks for the wonderful post. As I was reading, I started listing my to-do list in my head and realized that I quite often think “tomorrow. I’ll get to it tomorrow.” I’ve become a procrastinator. I used to be better about getting to what needs to be done, but life has happened and I’ve not adjusted well. Today, I’m sitting down and getting myself organized .so I can break the “I’ll do it tomorrow” curse.
To Kimberly M. I know exactly what you mean–”Life happened & I’ve not adjusted well” That’s me in an understatement. I wish I could hug you & tell you it’s OK–I understand. Me too. Hope we can encourage each other.
Yes, Yes, Yes! I needed this today! I’ve been putting off some major paperwork that is fast approaching a deadline. When I get into it, it’s not that bad, but I am such a procrastinator.
Please Lord, help me to get into this, and get it done!
Oh, I am the queen of procrastination! I procrastinated about confronting my husbands alcoholism, my son’s ADHD, my out of control mess of an office, and repairing my washer until it was too late (had to buy a new one-ouch).
But God has really been leading me straight into and through some of these things and I am grateful and hopeful. My best days are stil ahead of me- I cling to that promise.
Thanks for the ideas. I already use a binder, put am going to add sm note book.
Wow! I feel like I’ve been learning a lot about managing my time better lately. Actually, I’ve been forced into it by having a 2 year old daughter, 4 month old son, attending college online, and pursuing a scary dream of writing! I love the sign: “Only those who risk going too far can possibly find out how far they can go.” It may be scary, but I want to risk it! Thank you for your words of encouragement!
You’ve just described me! Thanks for speaking right to me today!
So, so true. I have a few projects on my list for this weekend. Thank you for the motivation to take a step forward.
I am the queen of Procrastinating! every project I have taken on is finished at the last minute and my daily life schedule is what can put off until tomorrow. I inflick so much unneeded stress on myself and never really thought about changing with the help of God. Today I start, a to do list and thinking ahead of what I can do to lighten the load for tomorrow and face life straight on and move ahead with his help. Thanks for opening my eyes.
Procrastination is my middle name. And unfortunately I have passed this down to my kids. My husband on the other hand gets up each day with a what do I have to do today attitude. I appreciate your comments today. It really helped!
What a wonderful post that needs to be copied and hung on my bathroom mirror! the lists can become so long and then it is harder to accomplish, but keeping it all within reach and in perspective with God at our side, makes it easier to move ahead. thank you so much!
Thanks for the reminders and organizing tips. I tend to not start projects because in order to start means other things have to get done first … once leading to another in a circle. So I never start.
I too, am a Procrastinator. I would rather veg on the couch watching taped episodes of my favorite shows than clean the house, do the dishes, pay the bills, etc. (It’s true!) I love a deadline – then I KNOW when I have to have it done!! Keep these thought provoking devotions coming, lady – God Bless!
Help !!!! I need prayer. Clutter & procrastination are eating me alive. I’m just so fearful & it’s so upsetting. I enjoy your devotions Glynnis, as I see I’m not the only one. I just wish you could live next door with DAILY encouragement. Nobody around me understands —& I mean NOBODY. I have chronic pain & fatigue & am slightly handicapped. Living alone is hard too. I tried to read the comments but have a hard time seeing. I may can go to library & print off. For I know they are encouraging. In your post yesterday, of course #4 applies to me!! Making decisions is so hard of what to do & how to do it. I work 2 days a week BUT….. IF ANYONE WANTS TO BE AN E-MAIL BUDDY & LETS HOLD EACH OTHER UP & ACCOUNTABLE____PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE… contact me **** I long for a true friend.
Thanks for the project organizing tips. I’m looking forward to starting my notebook over Easter break. I really like the quote you included at the end of your blog. Thanks again!
I may be a day late reading this email but it couldn’t have come at a more better time to put things in perspective for me…. It’s like you have been watching me but I know thats God watching over me and put it in your heart to give me the message… I have been procrastinating with every inch of my life these days… I say im gonna do something and I even make a to-do list but I promoise you nothing ever gets done… I keep putting everything off until tomorrow ut problem is tomorrow still haven’t arrived.. I confess– im a TV junky and thats all that gets done… Even though I try to tell myself I can watch it later on ONDEMAND or on the internet…. I need serious help because it really gets in the way of my time with God also… Please pray for me… I really want to do better with the life God has given me!
Once again you have hit the nail on the head. Thank you!
I am a true procrastinator. It drives me crazy but I never do anything about it. I need to pray that God will provide motivation. Thanks for the article!
Thank you Jesus that you did not put off saving me until tomorrow!!
Today did not start off well with me and usually I am such an upbeat person and an encourager to all I encounter, BUT have been dealing with some health issues for the past several months and I can’t get off the medical go-round. Just add another procedure, another doctor…..so ready to see some improvement. Had already typed Philipians 4:6-7 to my small group with prayer requests from others, but finally being led to Deutoronomy 31:8 was the message God has for me right now. Thank you for being God’s messenger.
Oh my word – you certainly wrote this blog for me! (Thanks, I think!) Trying to keep tackling the hard and “no fun” stuff so I can enjoy all the blessings God has given me and enjoy them with peace! THANKS so much – you always speak to my heart!
Good post. I am a procrastinator/perfectionist. I am a good list maker for small every day tasks. I am not good at knocking off those annoying large projects that clutter my home and allow me to feel so very unorganized and then eat away at my self-worth. Two projects I really struggle with are constant paperwork (I have a bad habit of writing things on little pieces of paper and then can never find them when I need them!) and picture albums/boxes, “Creative Memories” supplies from when my son was young, and he is now 21 in college (how bad is that) that have sat in my very small bedroom closet begging to probably be tossed as I will never get them completed. Makes me sad and anxious filled thinking about them. The rest of my home is fine. I would feel so joyful if I would just tackle these two projects once and for all. I seem to constantly be working on the paperwork thing…
Your post gives me much to think about and pray to move forward. Thank you.
I think I procrastinate as a form of self punishment. I must to the have to’s before I allow myself to do the want to’s.
Thanks for the reminder – it will still be there so I might as well just do it.
Great post! Glynnis, I ask a friend to team with me on a day when I want to tackle one or two of those tasks that I like to put off. We will call each other, set a time limit of anything from a half hour to two hours and then each of us tackles our “one thing” for that period of time. It is amazing how productive . . . and fairly painless the job is when shared like this.
Glynnis,
This post is just what I needed to hear today!
God Bless
Grace
Glynnis, I’ve read your book “I Used to be so organized” and have been working on my house. Little by little, like you recommend. Yes, and quite often that monster “Procrasination” rears it’s ugly head, when I look at the “whole” picture. But by breaking it down into small jobs makes it so much more manageable. Thank you so much for your weekly, uplifting blogs. It has certainly changed the way I look at life.
Blessings,
Janna
Glynnis,
This was exactly what I needed to hear today. And pretty much everyday! I can be my own worst enemy sometimes.
I’m now getting off the computer to stop avoiding my tasks of the day! Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Blessings,
Susan
Ah… that old nemesis, procrastination. He and I frequently stuggle and he usually wins. I know I have to get a handle on procrastination. I really need to get on with your plan. I just keep putting it off… sigh…
Thanks again for the reminder. I need to get on it TODAY.
I’m seriously busy with work or my family nearly all the time, so projects get short shrift around my house. But, in four more weeks, one of my part-time jobs will be done until August, so I’ll have some extra time to take care of those projects. I already started the project notebook, and it is good to get those things off my mind and onto paper.
But, that said, I am a bit concerned that procrastination may be sneaking up on me. This is going to be the first summer I haven’t gone to some kind of seminar or conference in five years. Partly b/c of finances (hubby has taken five pay cuts in four years, so I work more just to tread water financially); partly b/c I don’t want to leave my kids since I work so much more than I ever used to have to work; and I honestly am wondering if part of it might be a little depression, too. I feel emotionally exhausted from the many things my family has dealt with for the last nine years. I’m “tired” from feeling like we put out so much effort and seem to have nothing more/better to show for it. One of my part-time jobs is threatened due to the possibility of downsizing. My husband suggested that this is the time to try a new business endeavor, but even though he is right, I can hardly imagine more work, and then there’s the fear of failure…. Please pray for me.
Thank you for this insight, Glynnis! Great words to think about and stop procrastinating and make some changes TODAY!
So glad I’m not the only one who struggles with this. I struggle with procrastination constantly. Especially if it is a task or project that is too overwhelming, too scary, or just not what I want to do. Then I am playing catch-up when everything gets out of control. Which then keeps me from having the time to do the things I want to do. Which then makes me feel burned out all the time. A very ugly cycle…
But reading your blog makes me feel a little better because I know that I’m not the only one who falls into this vicious cycle, and I loved the tips you share on identifying why we procrastinate, and how to deal with it. Thanks so much!
What a great message – Yes, I waited until tomorrow to read my emails and it was all about procrastination. What a great message and I am going to write a small to do list instead of the 2 page to-do lists that I usually make!
The only time procrastination has ever helped me is shopping for clothes or other things I don’t really need. If I put it off long enough, the sale has passed and I’ve realized that I don’t need another blouse/skirt/pair of sandals.
I do find that I put off important tasks when I’m scared — of failure or success — which is why I especially needed to hear you say to turn that area over to God to cover with His peace. Thanks for the reminder that He already knows the future and it’s in His hands.
I have always had a problem with procrastination. I can always find something else that I want to do or isn’t as hard. It’s really because sometimes I think the job is too big (like the organizing of the closet) or I’m scared of doing something wrong, or I just really don’t want to do it (like doing the dishes). But I tell my daughter Mikala all the time, if you just do it when you’re supposed to do it, you don’t have to worry about it later and it turns out that it’s not that bad of a job or task anyway. Prayer always helps too. I’m developing the habit of praying to God every morning to order my steps and guide me throughout the day. I notice that the days that I don’t seek God’s guidance are usually the days when there is complete confusion. Thank you for the message, it was on time and I’m glad I didn’t procrastinate reading my email tonight.
This is SO what I needed to hear. Procrastination and I are old friends, but I am determined that we are going to part ways. Thank you so much for sharing so many wonderful ideas and motivation for clearing the clutter out of our lives. As I make small changes..and some not so small…my stress level is definitely seeing some relief! Thank you!
By risking going too far, I, too, have learned how far I could go. At the beginning of the school year my partner teacher and I were told there would only be one position for our Title I elementary dept. next year. We have worked sooo hard all year to be the best teachers possible. My husband challenged me to take on the high ability learners sponsorship which stretched me even more. Many people have agreed in prayer with me for our jobs to be preserved. Last Monday the principal asked if I would be willing to teach two classes in the high school along with my Title I duties so my full-time position would be preserved!! God is so creative in answering our prayers. I am so blessed!!
Boy, you really hit me hard today. I am such a procrastinater! I waste time doing unimportant things and all the while being miserable because I know I am avoiding things that I don’t like to do. Then my excuse is always that I don’t have the time. I know that needs to be a top choice change in my life. Prayer is where I am beginning. Thank you for this study.
Beautiful! I believe we were thinking the same thing today, for I decided today was the day I was going to get up off my hiney and start working out! I’ve started out slow by going on a walk and will do more each day! It took me nine months to make my beautiful daughter and I know now that I have had her that the weight I gained isn’t just going to disappear, so today I started doing something about it. I feel wonderful now that I did get out and enjoyed the sun and the quietness of the wonderful outdoors!
Thank you for your beautiful message!
God Bless