I’m a procrastinator. Like most folks, I have grand ambitions, BIG ideas, a desire to achieve. Yet, like most folks, I tend to waste my time pursuing things that do nothing to support these ambitions. My ideas often go to waste. The list of my life’s achievements is neither long nor impressive.
I say these things not to debase myself or illicit sympathy. By admitting to the fact that I’m a world-class time waster, I’m doing something about it. By sitting down to write these words, I’m taking action. I’m putting forth an effort, tiny as it may be. I’m not thinking. I’m not planning. And I’m sure as hell not trying. I’m doing.
Language is powerful. The words we use carry weight. Think about the difference between try and do. They’re worlds apart. The former is weak, uncertain. The latter is strong, decisive.
Words of wisdom from the patron saint of barstool prophets. Look him up.
To say you’ll try is to accept the possibility that things may not work out. You’ve acquiesced to failure and defeat before the game has even started. That’s the mindset of the procrastinator. That’s me.
Now, to say you’ll do is to leave no doubt at all. When you do something, that thing gets done. It may not be pretty, it may take longer than expected, but it gets done. Period. End of story.
I’m tired of procrastinating. I’m tired of falling asleep (or worse, lying awake all night) with regrets over the time I wasted that day, time flushed down the crapper thanks to my inability to resist Twitter or Netflix. Maybe you are too.
It’s time to make a change.
I’m done with trying. I’m all about doing. Or not doing. It’s either yes or no; half measures are a safety net for those who are too afraid to take a chance or take a stand.
Be like Buk — don’t try.