TOPIC: OVERCOMING PROCASTINATION

TEXT: Ecclesiastes 11: 4 – 6

What is Procrastination?  It is defined as the act or habit of putting off or delaying especially something that requires an immediate action.

 Introduction

Have you ever been involved in procrastination? This is not peculiar to you only but to many others who see it as a great mountain and barrier to the realization of their dreams.  When you delay or postpone a task that should be done at a given time, you have not only been involved in procastination but have indirectly delayed the realization of your vision. A lot of people have great vision but unable to accomplish them because of procrastination. Procrastination is a dream killer and a cankerworm as it has led to the abortion of great dreams. Fantastic relationships which could have led to marriage have been aborted on the altar of procrastination. 

 Reasons for Procrastination

1.      Laziness: Of the several causes of procrastination, laziness is a principal culprit.  Laziness cripples the mind, it weakens the body, and blurs a persons vision. Do not put forward what should be done now.  Lazy people see lions when they should see opportunities(Proverbs 26:13).

2.   Perfectionism and fear of failure: Some people in a bid to get perfect results engage in procrastination. There is hardly any perfect product anywhere. Perfect people do not exist either. There is always room for improvement. Also, fear of failure has made a lot of people to delay what should be done at the right time and eventually giving up on their dreams.

3.      Fear of criticism: A person obsessed with the fear of criticism can hardly make any meaningful achievement in life. In this imperfect world, there will always be critics. Do your best to pursue your dreams irrespective of criticisms.

4.      Lack of decisiveness - a phenomenon which is sometimes referred to as analysis paralysis or choice paralysis makes it difficult for people to decide especially those with too many options. Be decisive at all times. 

5.      6.      Risk aversion: Risk is common to most human activities. Some people are extremely risk averse preferring rather to engage in procrastination than to take appropriate actions. Instead of unnecessary procrastination, take the step of faith. Also, make deliberate efforts to acquire relevant skills and knowledge in risk management. 

    Keys to Overcoming Procrastination

1.      Determination: Determine to succeed and pursue your dreams.

2.      Be Realistic: Avoid perfectionism and be realistic. Perfect situations do not always exist in real life.

3.      Act in Faith and Look at the Big Picture: Do not look at obstacles and barriers. But act in faith and believe God for a miracle.

4.      Self-motivation is a necessary ingredient for success in life as there will sometimes be discouraging situations. Strengthen yourself in the Lord your God just like David (1 Samuel 30: 1- 6).

5.      Be focused: Focus is an important ingredient for overcoming procrastination. Jesus could have avoided the cross or procrastinated going to the cross if he were not focused (Hebrews 12:2).

 Conclusion:

God has given us all there is, to life and godliness. Avoid all forms of unnecessary procrastination. Do not put forward what should be done now. “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might” – Ecclesiastes 9:10a.