Fellow former procrastinators, neglect is expensive. Let’s get specific about last week’s topic. (Please see The Cost of Neglect, May 30, 2016.)
Small problems become large when we do not tend to them early on. Later, as large problems, they take more time, effort, and attention than they would have taken when they were “small weeds.” In addition, a neglected problem annoys and weighs on us – always applying pressure, nagging to be done, poking us with guilt, diverting attention from items that should have our focus today.
After the first one, here’s an alphabetized list of areas in which I find it easy to procrastinate. Alas, it’s only half the list! (I’m not examining the why of neglect, simply facing its consequences.)
Spiritual – Our relationship with Christ is the foundation of our lives. Our eternal relationship with Him doesn’t change, but our fellowship can crack and crumble, causing the house to shift and sag. Regular time with the Lord – even a little – provides perspective, insight, courage and much more that I lose when I inch away from meeting with Him.
Business/Management – This includes everything from oil changes for the car and getting the dog’s shots to making a will. I need to become more familiar with our household files – insurance, other documents.
Citizenship – The state of a democratic republic is the result of its citizens’ personal lives and their attentiveness to government – not just observing what happens, but taking an active part in keeping the ship of state upright and on course. Even my neglect of timely calls, voting, volunteering contributes to leaks and getting lost at sea.
Educational – Sometimes to make decisions, I should research online, make phone calls, read articles. This could be for a job search, a trip or course to take, buying a house in an unfamiliar area, medical treatment. Not equipping myself with necessary knowledge can mean I miss an opportunity or regret action or inaction.
Financial – Paying bills on time saves charges; but library late fees, rush mail, and not making reservations early have cost me money I didn’t need to spend. Keeping a rein on nonessential items so there are funds for the essential helps avoid a money bind and keeps the outgoing lower than the incoming.
“Fix-Its” – These are usually little things like the cracked leather arm in the car. Repair when it was a quarter inch would’ve worked. Now it’s two inches and peeling. Not repairing a hem right away means the skirt is not available when I need it.
What specific will you tend to today?
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