Escape the Procrastination Cycle: Embrace Your Inner Wolves
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Chapter 1: Understanding the Inner Conflict
According to a traditional Cherokee tale, we possess two wolves within us—a black one and a white one. The dominant wolf is determined by which one we nurture more. In my experience, simply suppressing the black wolf has proven ineffective; it remains a formidable force. Thus, I choose to engage in dialogue with it, helping it recognize that both wolves share a common adversary: suffering.
The black wolf, often representing procrastination, seeks immediate gratification as a means to numb its discomfort, even though this approach is ultimately detrimental. Conversely, the white wolf advocates for postponing pleasure and facing the immediate discomfort of responsibilities to prevent future suffering from escalating.
This perspective makes sense, yet it isn’t enough to persuade the black wolf to abandon procrastination in favor of productivity. However, by framing the conversation differently, I can capture the black wolf's attention.
To negotiate with the black wolf, I might say, “You’re looking for relief from anxiety; if I tackle what I’ve been putting off, you’ll see that your anxiety diminishes, almost like taking a tranquilizer.” Initially, the black wolf might doubt this, but by practicing mindfulness during tasks instead of rushing through them, it may soon discover a sense of tranquility.
The conclusion is clear: the most effective way to alleviate discomfort is through fulfilling obligations rather than seeking distractions and fleeting pleasures. When you complete your tasks, the oppressive weight in your chest—often referred to as anxiety—begins to lift.
Video Description: Pastor Rhys Stenner discusses the importance of breaking free from the repetitive cycle of procrastination and finding fulfillment in action.
The Joy of Being Present
“There are two ways to wash dishes. The first is to get them clean, and the second is simply to enjoy the act of washing them.” — Thich Nhat Hanh.
Frustration often stems from engaging in tasks we wish to avoid. However, if we adopt a mindset of acceptance and say, “Let’s just get it done!” we can rediscover joy in the process, much like a child at play. Personally, I have found that playing the Ghostbusters theme on repeat while vacuuming transforms the experience into something enjoyable.
By concentrating on the satisfaction derived from fulfilling our responsibilities, we can satisfy the black wolf’s need for pleasure, as it recognizes the sense of well-being gained from productivity.
The key to breaking free from the procrastination hamster wheel lies not in stifling the black wolf but in demonstrating to it that the white wolf's actions ultimately benefit both.
Note: Be cautious, as the black wolf may become so enamored with the discipline that it develops an addiction to a new, healthier “drug” known as “Getting Things Done.”
The Anticipation of Accomplishment
“I hate writing, but I love having written.” — Dorothy Parker.
This sentiment from Dorothy Parker encapsulates the struggle many face with procrastination. We often dread the tasks we know we should undertake but relish the satisfaction of having completed them.
For instance, I dislike dieting but feel fantastic once I finish one. I might not enjoy running, but the exhilaration of having done it is undeniable.
Why do we treasure the outcome? The positive feelings associated with completion outweigh the initial effort required. You feel lighter after a diet, invigorated after a run, and accomplished after tackling any daunting task.
The Pain of Inaction
If the black wolf remains unresponsive, consider employing a contrasting strategy by focusing on the discomfort of neglecting responsibilities.
For instance, I used to suffer from severe heartburn due to my junk food intake. By visualizing the aftermath of indulging in my favorite spaghetti dish, I made the conscious choice to avoid it for two years—no taste can outweigh the agony of 48 hours of heartburn.
In Summary
When the urge to procrastinate arises:
- Remind your black wolf of the joy found in the present, and experience the satisfaction of completing tasks.
- Highlight the positive feelings that accompany task completion.
- Illustrate the negative consequences of indulging in instant gratifications like junk food or distractions.
By remaining steadfast in your approach, you will find that spirituality can play a practical and beneficial role in combating procrastination through mindfulness and self-awareness.
A Virtual Embrace
AG
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Alberto García ??? - Medium
Video Description: Explore the three detrimental hamster wheels that hinder spiritual growth and discover why it's vital to break free from them immediately.