Everyone procrastinates, but not everyone is a procrastinator. 20% of adults are chronic procrastinators.” Procrastination doesn’t discriminate based on gender, race, or age.
Women of Influence, we don’t want procrastination to become a habit. So, let’s look at where we procrastinate, why, and what we can do about it.
Why Do We Procrastinate?
To avoid uncomfortable feelings, we put off doing difficult, unpleasant, tedious, or stressful tasks. The job may seem overwhelming or provoke anxiety. Some people procrastinate because they think they can’t do it right or they’ll mess it up.
I procrastinated doing the dishes because I was tired after cooking. I’ve not called the doctor because I don’t want to hear what the doctor has to say or the additional appointments which often follow.
I’ve put off working on a new course, book, or garden because the project seems too big. Sometimes I’ve not taken a step forward simply because I don’t have enough information and I’m unsure what to do.
Is Procrastination a Sin?
Procrastination is willfully delaying doing something that should be done. In my opinion, procrastination itself is not a sin, but why we procrastinate is. The root cause of our inaction is the result of not obeying God.
Procrastination may be a sin if we:
- Don’t do something God asked us to do. It is a sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it. ~ James 4:17
- Don’t act or take a step forward out of fear. God has not given us the spirit of fear and timidity but of power, love, and self-discipline. ~ 2 Timothy 1:7
- Prefer to waste time, have fun, and think it will magically get done. A hard worker has plenty of food, but a person who chases fantasies has no sense. ~ Proverbs 12:11
- Overbook our schedules and don’t have time for what God wants. Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do. ~ Ephesians 5:17
How Do We Stop Procrastinating?
Practice self-compassion and don’t beat yourself up. God will empower you to do His work.
Find meaning in the task and write down why you need to do it.
Start small – one piece at a time. Perfectionism tries to be like God. Do your best. That’s enough.
Choose which job to do first. Do a simple task and build success one step at a time.
Set personal deadlines. Use a 15-minute timer, a TV commercial, or even wash ten dishes.
The goal – get started, and it’s easier to get done.
How to Stop Procrastinating
Watch the full Women of Influence Series
Featuring :
- How To Become a Woman of Influence
- Don’t Talk About Your Health
- No Stinkin’ Thinkin’
- Don’t Interrupt
- Etc.