I blogged earlier about playing zombie games. I had to ask myself what I like about them. Was it the bodies splattering? Was it the flying guts? Actually, it was neither. I noticed those games all had several things in common. First, they give you goals to achieve. Second, as you achieve those goals, you are rewarded with things like upgrades, coins, or the privilege to move to a harder level. That combination is perfect for motivating the ADHD mind.
The next time you’re having trouble keeping on task, write down what it is you want to accomplish. What do you want to do? Read the Bible in a year? Complete that essay? Write a memo? Sell so many widgets? Write it down so that it is real to you. Next, write down what the reward will be. It can be a tangible reward (I’ll get an increased chance of promotion) or an intangible one (I’ll have a sense of accomplishment).
If you are going to do this to achieve your goals, I suggest you start off small, otherwise, you’ll get discouraged and start the whole procrastination cycle over again.
Phillipians 3:14 (NLT)
I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.
Tag Archives: Procrastination
Why I Procrastinate – Part 2
The second reason I procrastinate is usually because it’s a task I hate. If it’s something I despise, I have an extremely difficult time staying focused on the task. But while I can’t get myself to start tasks I hate, I can hyperfocus for hours on something that keeps my interest. So how do I get around it?
Luke 12:34
For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Think of “interest” as a synonym for “heart.” We folks with ADD tend to follow our hearts wherever they lead us. So what I try to do is convince myself of the value of the task. I visualize the good that will come from completing the task and make that my treasure. And often, my heart (interest) follows. When there’s something you can’t get yourself to do, fix your heart on the reward for getting it done.
See you on Monday for the next devotional.
Why I Procrastinate – Part 1
Procrastination. It’s the bane of all who suffer ADHD. I’ve found there’s two main reasons I put things off. The first is a feeling that I just can’t do it. I see the messy office, the stacks of to-do lists, piles of laundry, and feel overwhelmed. Powerless. And it’s easier to just walk away. But I’ve taken encouragement in this verse:
Phillipians 4:13
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Read that verse in different versions. It means exactly what it says. When I feel like I just can’t tackle the paperwork, or anything, I remind myself that I can rely on the strength of Christ.
We’ll talk about the second reason I procrastinate tomorrow.
ADD: Attention Deficit Devotional 