Make the Most of Today

Recently, I had a conversation with a friend who said, “My family refers to me as the queen of good intentions.” We laughed, but her words made me think.

Often, we have plans we intend to implement, but we get sidetracked. We have a list for today, but when that day comes to a close, everything on the list is pushed to tomorrow, or the next day, or the week after.

It’s the same with relationships. We delay words that need to be said or actions that need to be taken and miss valuable opportunities to strengthen bonds and make memories.

Following are some thoughts on what prevents us from making the most of today:

Procrastination

I confess. I spent most of today procrastinating the writing of this piece. I had a busy weekend, so could think of plenty of excuses to put off sitting in the chair and applying myself to the task at hand.

When something is challenging, requires research, or is beyond our level of comfort, it’s easy to find reasons to delay. Sometimes, laziness and distraction are the culprits. Ultimately, self-discipline is necessary to move forward.

Procrastination is also involved in relationships. Have you failed to forgive those who wounded you? Do you need to apologize to someone and take responsibility for hurtful words or actions? Or has procrastination stopped you from following up on a promise?

Today is a good day to act. As each excuse pops into your mind, remove it. Make the most of today by doing one thing you’ve been putting off.

Perfectionism

Perfectionism is one of the greatest deterrents to forward motion. Perfectionism what ifs, second guesses, starts over, and often fails to follow through. Make the most of today by taking simple steps to completing one goal. Push perfectionism aside long enough to finish. Then tweak, if you must.

Uncertainty

Often, we allow uncertainty to prevent us from seizing the day. We spend too much time trying to determine how best to approach tasks, look at too many different options, and allow indecision to gain control.

For some, lack of self-confidence is involved. We’re unsure if we have the knowledge or skills and worry others will criticize. Don’t allow uncertainty to rule the day. Push doubt aside and capture a vision for what you can accomplish now.

No Sense of Urgency

How would you approach life if you knew the number of your days? No pun intended, but if you had a literal “deadline,” would you be more intentional about expressing love, giving thanks, and affirming those you hold dear?

Don’t waste time and energy embroiled in disagreements, focused on perceived slights, or wishing for things you think will bring happiness. Instead, forgive, be at peace with others, make spiritual growth a priority, and work on relationships. Find joy in simple pleasures. Recognize blessings. Cherish and love your people well. Never miss an opportunity to say “I love you” with words and deeds.

None of us are promised tomorrow, so make the most of today.

“How do you know what is going to happen tomorrow? For the length of your lives is as uncertain as the morning fog—now you see it; soon it is gone” James 4:14 TLB.

©CandyArrington

Candy Arrington is a writer, blogger, speaker, and freelance editor. She often writes on tough topics with a focus on moving through, and beyond, difficult life circumstances. Candy has written hundreds of articles, stories, and devotionals published by numerous outlets including: Inspiration.org, Arisedaily.com, CBN.com, Healthgrades.com, Care.com, Focus on the Family, NextAvenue.org, CountryLiving.com, and Writer’s Digest. Candy’s books include Life on Pause: Learning to Wait Well (Bold Vision Books), When Your Aging Parent Needs Care (Harvest House), and AFTERSHOCK: Help, Hope, and Healing in the Wake of Suicide (B&H Publishing Group).

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