Faulty Assumptions – See. Perceive. Act.
One reason we put things off, former procrastinators, is we make decisions based on faulty assumptions. Something seems “impossible” so we delay. Making decisions based on faulty assumptions leads to unwise action.
Tired brains and bodies have a hard time assessing a situation accurately. Options seem nonexistent. We fall into thinking “It can’t be done.” “I can’t do it.” “There’s nobody to help.” “I can’t afford it.” “Forget it. It’ll be a relief not to try.” Resentment, frustration, sadness.
Or we say, “This is not the season for me to do this.” That may or may not be true.
We discern if a nudge we sense or a desire we cherish is of the Lord. If it’s not, then drop it. If it comes from Him and He is directing action now, then we need to proceed with it. How do we do that, especially if we juggle many balls?
Prayer, the Word, counsel from a wise friend or husband, and a good night’s rest help us focus and strategize. Willingness to follow the Lord’s guidance no matter what primes our attitudes to more accurately perceive what to do. We may be surprised!
Emily gave up playing piano because her toddler insisted on banging keys while Mom played. What could Emily do instead of walking away from something the Lord put in her?
Perhaps Emily should make piano one of her essential few – a priority. That means it needs to be built into her routine. Some priorities can be done once a month or 6 times a year. This one should likely be more often. Even a consistent 15 minutes helps maintain a level of skill and brings joy. Keeping sharp would encourage Emily, refresh her, position her to keep learning, and perhaps open doors of opportunity.
Is this selfish? Not if it is God-directed.
What about her toddler and other children? They learn to respect Mom’s practice time by not interfering with it. They learn patience. Her diligence is an excellent example. Exposure to her music develops an appreciation of it. (Apply this to woodworking, car repair, painting, etc.) Children need respect, patience, diligence, and appreciation in many areas of their lives.
Mom won’t exasperate with an hour’s practice while toddlers wait – unless she’s set up something that delights them. She’s careful to give her toddler his own time at the piano. Naptime and piano may not mix. If children are away, Mom can commit some time to practice. A mother’s helper is good here, or a baby sitter if mom goes elsewhere to practice. Personal babysitting exchanges are excellent – a set schedule to swap childcare, freeing each other to tend to priorities. Older siblings can be trained to occupy little ones for a short period. Dad might pitch in with 15 minutes of stories or outdoor play. (And vv for him).
Avoid faulty assumptions. Figure out what routine works. Persevere for your priority.
If God affirms it, what would you like to prioritize?
