Do you know what most often leads to procrastination? Perfectionism.
When we don’t feel like we can do it perfectly, we set the action step aside. It happens with decisions, projects, habits, and goals. It’s hard to start something when we don’t feel like we can do it perfectly. It’s also hard to make a decision if we’re paralyzed wondering if it will be the right one.
How do we overcome waiting for the perfect opportunity before we step up and take action? The truth is, the perfect opportunity, decision, or action won’t come until we step in and begin. Sometimes, we have to step fully in before the beauty shows up or the healing comes (2 Kings 5; Ezekiel 47). Without that step, we will never know! Here are thoughts that have helped me:
Ripple Effect
What you do and don’t do have a ripple effect. Both are equally as powerful, but one creates a better outcome. Remembering this makes me want to take action! [The Ripple Effect by Doug Grady]
Courage and Bravery
Your bravery now may be someone else’s breakthrough in the future. Don’t just think about your life – think about the lives of those coming after you, even the third and fourth generation beyond your own life. This comes to mind when I’m making health decisions, risk taking decisions and financial decisions. Each of these areas will impact generations to come. [Win The Day by Mark Batterson]
Start Small
Remembering that no one begins as an expert has helped me take a stab at something! We want to live in a growth mindset, not a fixed mindset. Just because you’ve “never done it” may be the exact ready why you need to! [Mindset by Carol Deck]
“No one ever begins as an expert.” – Unknown
“The expert in anything was once a beginner.” – Helen Hayes
“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin…” – Zechariah 4:10
Direction Always Trumps Intention
The destination of our path always trumps our intention. You may think you want to accomplish this or that, but if you’re not moving on the path toward it, you’re moving in some other direction. Intentions aren’t good enough. When you’re heading the wrong way, your outcome is already determined until you turn around. [The Principle Of The Path by Andy Stanley]
Other Quotes
“I’m never more than about 80% sure.” – Unknown
“Character is the ability to carry out a good resolution long after the excitement of the moment has passed. – Cavett Robert
“Perfectionism is the art of never being satisfied.” – Unknown
“Perfection is a roadblock to progress.” – Unknown
“If procrastination is a disease. Action is the cure.” – Richie Norton
“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” – Wayne Gretzky
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We want to do our best, but if you find you’re driven to inaction because you’re uncertain of the outcome, you may need to work on overcoming perfectionism.
I once heard an old farmer say, “I better get out there and do something, right or wrong.”
