Do you PROCRASTINATE? Know this…

Dear Friend,

When you think about your biggest, boldest goals…

That book you want to write
Stepping into that leadership role
Expanding your presence on social media

Are you filled with excitement?
Or
Does it give you a feeling of dread?

…But, what will people think?
…But, what if they don’t like my ideas?
…But, what if what I want to do is a complete failure?

While one part of us is excited about our most cherished goals,
another part feels anxious, and is afraid of what possible outcome might be in store for us on the other side.

Judgement? Rejection? Failure?

And, so we PROCRASTINATE.

At which point, I find it helpful to ask:
Where am I focusing my attention as I think about this goal?
How much of this is hard because it is actually hard, or because I am making it hard?
How much of my mental struggle is a result of projection of my fears, and how much of it is reality?

As Seneca wisely said, “We suffer more in imagination, than in reality.” 

So, become present to all the ways in which you might be increasing your suffering.

One study found that people with Math Phobia like to avoid even thinking about Math because it makes their head hurt. The mere thought of it is painful!

But, get this…

As soon as they start working on an actual problem, the pain disappears.

As Procrastination expert, Rita Emmet notes, “The dread of doing a task uses up more time and energy than doing the task itself.’”

So ask yourself: How can I consciously make the journey of pursuing my goals easier by choosing to place my attention on what brings me joy? Such as…

How much you would learn and grow as you pursue this goal
How big of a contribution you would make on others as you pursue it, and
How the journey itself will help you become the kind of person you wish to become

And if any of the imaginary gremlins (fear of failure, rejection, judgment) raise their unfriendly heads, place your hand on your heart and say,

“Should such an outcome come to pass, I trust my ability to handle it well.”  🙂

If you found this helpful, please pass this on to a friend or colleague who could also sign up for these weekly nuggets of wisdom here.

Warmly,
Bhavna Toor
Chief Mindfulness Officer
Shenomics