I’m a procrastinator. This is a new realization for me. One of my favorite magazines, Psychology Today, defines procrastination as “the gap between intention and action.” Yup, that’s me. I have a list of intentions, some of which I’m not taking action on – so, therefore, no results.
Hmm, let’s see…I intend to create a business model for Style Statement consultants, go to the yoga classes I’ve already paid for, attend a Buddhist Temple event with my son, and choose the interior finishes for our cottage. All not happening.
Because we were, during the Stone Age, designed to hunt and gather, to take care of things now, we often let future goals and dreams slip away. Our long-term desires are ignored while immediate needs are met – feeding baby, loving baby, shopping, laundry, replying to emails…damn, the day is gone.
But with intention and deliberate action, you can create results in your life. Here are five Style Statement tips to help:
- Create a visual image of your second word. Remember, it’s what you want more of in your life. Write a poem or draw a picture and place on your fridge or your office wall.
- Look and feel your second word. Let it be a guide when you go for that bowl of ice cream, be inspired by a photo of strength and beauty placed on your fridge.
- Eliminate distractions. Are you committed to peace in your life? If so, turn off your cell phone, email, and iPod and allow stillness to be your friend.
- Be aware of the meaning behind your intention. The more meaningful the intention, the better chance of a desired result.
- Create an action list. The more you structure an intention, the less chance there is of procrastinating.
When I put my intentions through the filter of these actions, I feel more grounded, more calm, and more joyful. That creates results. Off I go now to yoga class. Namaste.
Lovely and useful. Excellent Style Statement tips to use too. Some of this is actually on my list today (actions I need to take to manifest my already-stated intentions because, alas, to-do list or set of goals is worthless if we don’t follow through).
Sometimes technology gets in my way of being as productive as I should be, so I’m enacting a new internet-free policy for a couple of workdays of the week. I’m suffering withdrawal already, but I believe when I see the visible, tangible results of being more focused (and less at the mercy of e-mails and others’ rushed requests), I’ll be uber hooked on the new offline way of life.