“Later” might be one of the most dangerous words in the English language. I’ve been working on a bathroom remodel project at home for over a year now. Coming from a construction family, it’s embarrassing how long it’s taking me to finish. I like to think I’m disciplined in other areas of my life, but this project has exposed some serious shortcomings. Why haven’t I just gotten after it and finished the job? Because in my mind, there’s always later.
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I’ll get to it this weekend.
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After vacation, I will really start to focus on it.
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Once I get better tools, then I will make progress.
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I’ll work on it when we have a little extra money in the bank account.
And so the cycle continues.
Maybe you don’t have an unfinished bathroom project looming over your head, but maybe you are struggling with “later” in some other area of your life. Here are three strategies to help break the cycle:
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What Gets Scheduled Gets Done — We can let life happen to us or we can take control of our schedules. Prioritize what’s important by building your daily and weekly schedule around your non-negotiables. For example, schedule 10 minutes TODAY to read the Word.
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We Can’t Do Everything, But We Can Do Something — Maybe you aren’t in shape to run five miles, but you can take a 15-minute walk TODAY. Small wins build momentum.
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Set Anti-Goals — Anti-goals are things you avoid to help you focus on what matters. They help you identify and eliminate obstacles that threaten desired goals and healthy living. For example, don’t hang around the workroom TODAY if there are sugary treats. Instead, fill up on water and stop at the store on your way home to pick up healthy snacks for your teacher desk.
Whatever your “later” excuse is, take one small, intentional step today. Let’s stop waiting for “later” and start moving forward now.