Elements For A Healthier Life Magazine Issue 04 | August 2016 | Page 12

unpleasant predicaments that leave me scrambling to do that which I should have done yesterday. In the interest of finding more balance, I’ve begun developing better habits.

Here's How I Avoid the Procrastination Pit

I visualize every consequence that comes with procrastination. I imagine the emotional mess I will create by my actions, and the frenetic pace at which I'll have to work if I delay my project. Then I imagine the feeling I'll have if I just dive in now and finish the work-- the sense of accomplishment, the freedom.

Secondly, I ask myself these questions before I begin doing anything at all:

~Is this the best use of my time?

~Is there something more pertinent I’m potentially avoiding?

And before I allow my feet to land on a slippery slope, I vow to practice self-care instead…

Because sometimes self-care is doing what hurts now to avoid a greater pain later.

I won't say these tactics are effective every time -- because "the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak." Still, I have become more conscious of the ways I procrastinate, and more valiant in my efforts to stop it and other self-sabotaging habits.

12 | ElementsForAHealthierLife.com | August 2016