Ambiance Solutions

One of the most commonly used reasons for procrastination is the turmoil of our present circumstances. We will "get our act together" and finally [get organized, lose weight, go back to school...insert whatever you are putting off].

Funny thing, though, things never do seem to get settled. There always seems to be some speed bump that takes away the momentum we desire to put our dreams into action.

So, what if things NEVER settle down? Are we going to put our whole life on hold, waiting for the perfect conditions to accomplish all those things we think we want to do?

My life is totally unsettled right now. We are facing a move from Southern California to the Olympic Peninsula in the Pacific Northwest that wasn't even on the radar two months ago. Things "just happened" that fast -- are happening that fast.

I caught myself procrastinating with those very words "when things settle down." But then it dawned on me that my life never has been, nor ever will be, "settled." This constant movement (not necessarily movING, although that happens a lot, too) is just how it is. I have to live life NOW.

So what does that mean? It means I continue to build my business, do my spiritual work, develop my relationship with my beloved husband, keep touch with my Mom and my kids and my friends, all while the boat is pitching and rolling.

Sure, sometimes I get thrown off balance, but it sure is a better choice to enjoy the journey than to stay on the shore!

What are YOU putting off?

Brenda Spandrio
The Declutter Lady

Did you accomplish everything you wanted to today? Most of us didn't; we can't. I don't believe in micromanaging of any kind, not even my time, but too often we let time slip by without protest. We even wish it to hurry along, much like we did when anticipating a special treat as children.

There are times when it is appropriate, even necessary, to distract ourselves and involve ourselves in leisure activities. Unfortunately, we too often get carried away and it's our work, our need to make a living that gets in the way!

The fact is that we need both work AND leisure in order to feel satisfied with either. "All play and no work" becomes just as boring as "all work and no play."

I am tempted by (and give in to) time wasters, too. That's at odds with my goal to be productive. The way I handle it is to stop. Whether it's mindless surfing on the 'net, "just one" game of Hearts, or nosing around Facebook, as soon as the "still small voice" inserts itself, I stop, shake myself and get back to work.

It's not a character flaw to get distracted and get off track from being productive at work. However, we cannot cater to our weakness if we wish to move forward.

So, keep track of time, and how you are using it. You'll enjoy your time "off" more if you work when you're at work -- I know I do!

Brenda Spandrio