This next post in my blog series on Preventing Procrastination and Pursuing Purpose is about some of the dangers we expose ourselves to when we procrastinate. I’m not necessarily talking about how neglecting or delaying doing something can be bad for our health or place us in the path of danger, although those are worth consideration. I’m referring to things less obvious.

For instance, consider how we feel–the anxiety, fear, and other negative feelings, all of which may lead to physical illness if the situation goes on for too long–such as in the following scenarios:

*An unfinished task seems to assume a life of its own and grow larger than it actually is, until we feel overwhelmed.

*A task or obligation we continue to neglect or put off stirs up fear and anxiety disproportionate to the actual task or obligation.

*Doubt and uncertainty result in no clear plan of action, so little to nothing gets done.

*Ongoing issues with procrastination inevitably lead to running late for everything, indicating an established stronghold or repetitive behavior pattern.

*Prolonged procrastination can lead to neglect or laziness, which can have the same effect in our lives as weeds overtaking a garden or a fence breaking down and allowing unwelcome intruders.

Potential solutions, respectively, to the above scenarios?

*Do one thing at a time, as soon as reasonably possible.

*Stay focused on the task at hand, but if we do get interrupted (let’s face it, life has a way of doing that!), return to the task as soon as we can and complete it.

*Make a plan of action (a reasonable “To Do” list) the night before, if possible, or at least first thing in the morning, so we have a solid plan for the day regarding what we need to achieve.

*Get to the root of the problem. Be honest and face the truth (even when it’s painful), stop making excuses, and stop feeling sorry for ourselves (or as Joyce Meyer would say, “You can be pitiful or powerful“).

*Consciously guard against a spirit of laziness and strive to get rid of procrastination.

“Procrastination devours opportunities to live a purposeful life.”

— Joyce Meyer

Can you identify with any of these potentially dangerous or risky scenarios? Do you have others to add? What kinds of solutions might you implement to overcome these areas of procrastination?