Do you procrastinate? I only procrastinate on the things that I don’t want to do or things that I think are hard :0) Does this resonate with you? Procrastination is the practice of carrying out less urgent tasks in preference for more urgent ones, or the preference of more pleasurable tasks in place of less pleasurable ones. The latter is me.

We have phrases to encourage us:

• Why put off until tomorrow what you can do toady.
• Do a job big or small, do it well or not all. (Quoted often by my dad to remind me to give everything my best.)

The Wall Street Journal in January stated that procrastinators are attempting to avoid anxiety or worry aroused by a tough task by doing things to improve our mood like take a nap or go on Facebook. Unfortunately, at a later point, we end up feeling worse.

This is so me. I will know I need to do something like write a blog or work on my second book, and I will fill my time with Facebook, TV or better yet, shopping.

 4 Indolence wants it all and gets nothing; the energetic have something to show for their lives. (Proverbs 13:4 MSG)

62 Jesus said, “No procrastination. No backward looks. You can’t put God’s kingdom off till tomorrow. Seize the day.” (Luke 9:62 MSG).

Truth time. I’m supposed to be working on a second book. I have some research to finish and need to start writing. I keep filling my time with other stuff. I am really excited about where this book is going and how it could serve others, but I can’t get started.

The scripture from Luke says it all to me. Seize the Day! Or, to flashback to one of my favorite movies (Dead Poets Society), Carpe Diem! Years ago this was my mantra. I intended to live everyday to the fullest. I still believe this, however my energy and focus has dipped a bit over the years.

So what am I going to do with this? I am carving out time-this Friday-to write. I’m putting it on my calendar and will continue to put it on my calendar. Here’s what I know. Procrastination doesn’t feel good. It does frustrate me. When I choose to get things done, cross them off my list or move in the direction God is calling me, I have peace.  Also, I love the sense of accomplishment even if it is simply crossing it off the “to do” list.

What are you going to do today to move forward? Here are some ideas.

• Make a short list for just today.
• The list should include one high priority item.
• Pick one thing and get it done. Little victories add up.
• Celebrate every step.

Will you join me in seizing the day? Share your struggles and victories below and we can walk this together.