Be Gentle

Few people may know who Philip Stanhope, 4^th Earl of Chesterfield (1694-1773) was, but most all of us know what he said.  It was the unknown Earl who spoke the wise words, “Never put off till tomorrow what you can do today.”  This is not just a well-known quote or catchy phrase, it is a deeply profound truth.  You should never, ever, put off till tomorrow what needs to be done today.  Why?  Because tomorrow may never get here.

                When I say that tomorrow may not come, I am not referring to possible death lurking around the corner.  Yes, that could happen, but for the majority of us, that is not the case.  When I say that tomorrow may not come I mean that when 24 hours pass, you most likely be less likely to do a task you have put off than you were when you made the decision not to do it now.  Good intentions are never sufficient motivation to get things done.

"Life is fragile.  We’re not guaranteed a tomorrow so give it everything you’ve got."

- Tim Cook

Businessman

                One of the key principles in goal setting is that you take some kind of action toward the achievement of the goal within the first 24 hours.  That is because if you do not take action, the chances of you never taking the needed action shoots way up.  Studies and experience have shown us that when we let things slide, they slide very fast.  It is more common for the things that have been put off never to be done than you actually doing them.

                Success-minded people need to clearly see and understand that all you have is now.  Do not think of tomorrow because tomorrow is just an idea.  The power that will help you to get things done tomorrow is the action you take today.  If you are too busy, too lazy, too tired, too distracted or whatever to get things done today, you will be no more so tomorrow.

                Nothing happens without action!  The action you take today – right now – will set your future and form your destiny.  As you start each new day, make a list of what needs to be done and then get busy doing it.  Don’t wait, don’t put it off and above all, do not say, “I will get to it tomorrow.”

You can learn more about Personal Development from author and speaker, John Patrick Hickey.  To get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com. Be sure to sign up for the free membership and get even more tools to help you achieve your dreams.  

© 2017 John Patrick Hickey. No part of this may be reprinted or published without permission of the author.