If you’re plagued by chronic procrastination, I have good news for you. Today doesn’t have to be like yesterday.

In fact, this hour doesn’t have to be like the previous one. Even better, your next five minutes can completely change the direction of your day.

Several years ago, I could barely motivate myself to accomplish even the simplest task. Thankfully, I found simple strategies that continue to help me to this day.

One of my favorites is this: I set my timer for five, fifteen, thirty or sixty minutes and see how much I can accomplish before the timer dings.

Even setting your timer (on your smartphone or in your kitchen) for just five minutes can provide the boost you need to get the dirty kitchen dishes started, begin that project or make a phone call you’ve been putting off. And it just might provide the motivation you need to keep going after the timer goes off.

We always feel better when we manage our time well. Like the servant who faithfully managed his master’s money, we want to hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23 ESV). Just as we all desire to feel our heavenly Father’s pleasure regarding the way we use the time He’s given us. Isn’t that true?

When we need to jumpstart our day – or our hour – setting the timer for just five minutes creates an easy time frame to commit to, especially when we’re tired or the task seems overwhelming. Once the timer goes off, we can reset the timer for another five minutes or stretch ourselves and go for a longer time commitment to tackle another project.

Think about it: minutes are ticking away. Which would you rather do? Spend five minutes knocking out (or putting a dent in) a task? Or wasting that same five minutes and continuing your downward spiral into laziness, guilt, and anxiety?”

Now and then, throughout 2018, I’ll share the techniques I’ve developed or learned from others to conquer procrastination. In the meanwhile, I’d love to hear ways that have helped you manage your time – ways that have made your todays better than your yesterdays.

What about you?

You can use a pseudonym (fake name) when commenting.

• How has procrastination affected you and your day?
• What is your favorite time management skill?

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