I met my friend Anna for lunch last week. We had not seen each other for a while. Both of us are busy entrepreneurs and it’s always fun to catch up on what’s going on in our businesses.
As we talked, Anna brought me up to date on her plans for the summer. It all sounded exciting to me, and I told her that I couldn’t wait to see how things turned out.
But I noticed that I was more excited about Anna’s plans than she was. Something wasn’t right.
It turns out that Anna had a vision for what she wanted her summer to look, she set her goals, and made plans for that vision. But she wasn’t taking action to do anything about it.
Of course, I went into coaching mode and called her out on her procrastination.
What I shared with her is what I am sharing with you now.
Procrastination is a struggle we all face at times. It’s that nagging habit of putting off tasks, thinking we’ll get to them eventually. But as Christian women, we know that God has placed a unique vision in our hearts, and procrastination can be a significant barrier to living out that vision.
For Anna, it was her vision for a fun and exciting summer. For you, it could be something even bigger.
So, let’s explore how procrastination affects our ability to live our vision and discover practical, faith-filled ways to overcome it.
The Reality of Procrastination
Procrastination often creeps in because of fear, perfectionism, or simply feeling overwhelmed. We think, “I’ll do it tomorrow,” but tomorrow turns into weeks or even months. Proverbs 12:24 reminds us, “Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor.” When we procrastinate, we are not only delaying our progress but also inviting unnecessary stress and anxiety into our lives.
We all have moments when we feel paralyzed by the size of the tasks ahead. It’s in these moments that procrastination becomes a coping mechanism. Rather than confronting the work head-on, we distract ourselves with less important activities. This avoidance leads to a cycle of stress and guilt, where the original tasks grow larger in our minds.
The Cost of Delay
When we procrastinate, we miss out on the opportunities God has for us. Ephesians 5:15-16 encourages us to be wise and make the most of every opportunity because the days are evil. Each moment we procrastinate is a moment that we lose to move toward our vision and purpose.
Also, procrastination hinders your growth. Instead of moving forward, you find yourself stuck in the same place, feeling frustrated, and unfulfilled. James 1:22 tells us, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” We are called to be doers, actively going after the vision God gave us.
And the thing about procrastination is that it has a ripple effect in every aspect of our lives. Relationships may suffer because we become preoccupied with our unfinished tasks. Our spiritual walk can feel dry and disconnected as we fail to step into the fullness of God’s calling. We might even experience physical symptoms like fatigue and headaches, which are our bodies’ way of signaling that something is off balance.
But it doesn’t have to be this way.
Finding Strength in Faith
Overcoming procrastination begins with seeking God’s guidance and strength. Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us to trust in the Lord with all our heart and lean not on our own understanding. When we submit our ways to Him, He will make our paths straight. Prayer is the most powerful tool we have in our arsenal. Ask God for clarity, wisdom, and the courage to take action.
Prayer is the foundation of our journey to overcome procrastination. It aligns our hearts with God’s will and opens our eyes to His direction. When we pray, we can find the strength to confront our fears and the clarity to see the path ahead. Journaling our prayers and thoughts can also be beneficial. Getting your concerns out of your head and on to paper allows you to reflect on God’s faithfulness and also track your progress.
Large tasks can feel overwhelming, leading us to put them off. Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:34 not to worry about tomorrow because each day has enough trouble of its own. Break down your tasks into smaller, manageable steps, focusing on what you can do today. This approach not only makes the task less intimidating but also provides a sense of accomplishment with each step you take.
Remember the story of Nehemiah rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. He faced what seemed like an impossible task, but he approached it with prayer, planning, and persistent effort. By breaking down the work and enlisting the help of others, he achieved what seemed impossible.
We can get inspiration from this story, knowing that no task is too great when we rely on God’s guidance and take it one step at a time.
Setting Clear Goals
Writing down your goals is another powerful step. Habakkuk 2:2 says, “Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it.” When you write down your goals, they become tangible and real. Set specific deadlines and hold yourself accountable.
Creating a vision board or a goal journal can be a helpful tool. Visualizing your goals and seeing them daily can keep you motivated and focused. Remember, these goals should align with the vision God has placed in your heart. Every 90 days, review and adjust them as needed. But stay flexible to God’s leading.
Eliminating Distractions
Distractions are a common cause of procrastination. Colossians 3:2 advises us to set our minds on things above, not on earthly things. Identify what distracts you and take steps to eliminate those distractions. Whether it’s turning off notifications, creating a dedicated workspace, or setting specific times for focused work, minimizing distractions helps you stay on track.
We live in a world full of distractions, from social media to endless notifications. It’s crucial to create an environment conducive to productivity. This might mean setting boundaries with your time, such as dedicated work hours free from interruptions, or creating a physical space that inspires focus and creativity.
Getting Encouragement Through Scripture and Affirmations
Affirmations and scriptures remind us of our purpose, calling, assignment, and abilities. They help us stay focused and motivated.
Daily affirmations grounded in God’s Word can reinforce your commitment to overcoming procrastination. Phrases like “I am equipped by God to fulfill my purpose” or “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” can transform your mindset and build your confidence.
Seeking Accountability Partners
Accountability is also crucial. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 tells us that two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. Find an accountability partner or join a group that supports your vision and goals. Sharing your progress and challenges with someone who encourages you can make a huge difference.
Having a trusted friend or mentor to share your journey with can provide the encouragement and accountability needed to stay on track. Consider joining or forming a small group of like-minded women who are also striving to live out their God-given visions. Together, you can pray, share experiences, and hold each other accountable.
Celebrating Progress
It’s important to celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Each step you take towards your vision is a victory. Celebrate these moments and thank God for His guidance and strength.
Recognizing and celebrating your progress can boost your motivation and morale. Keep a journal of your achievements, no matter how minor they might seem. Reflect on how far you’ve come and give thanks for God’s faithfulness. These celebrations serve as reminders of God’s hand in your journey and the milestones you’ve reached.
Embracing a New Mindset
Overcoming procrastination requires a shift in mindset. Romans 8:28 assures us that in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. Trust that God is working everything for your good and that taking action aligns with His purpose for your life.
Remember the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30. The servants who used their talents wisely were rewarded, while the one who buried his talent out of fear was chastised. God has entrusted you with unique gifts and a vision for your life. It’s time to step out in faith, overcome procrastination, and live out the calling He has for you.
Embracing a new mindset involves letting go of past failures and fears. Forgive yourself for any procrastination that has held you back and commit to moving forward with a renewed sense of purpose. Visualize yourself successfully achieving your goals, trusting that God is with you every step of the way.
Moving Forward
Procrastination doesn’t have to define your journey. By using the strategies I’ve shared with you here, you can overcome procrastination and move forward in purpose toward your vision.
Philippians 4:13 encourages us, “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” With God’s strength and guidance, you can overcome procrastination and live out the vision He has for your life. Start today, take that first step, and watch how God moves in your life as you faithfully go after your purpose.
As you travel this journey, remember that each step, no matter how small, brings you closer to fulfilling the vision God has placed in your heart. Trust in His timing, rely on His strength, and remain steadfast in your faith. You are capable, you are equipped, and with God’s help, you can overcome procrastination and live the purposeful life you were created to live.
