You have a list of things to do, but you are three months into this “stay at home” thing, and you haven’t started any of them. What seems to be the problem?
Whether you have been “thinking” about learning how to knit, thinking about writing your memoirs, thinking about learning another language, or just thinking about thinking, you are overdue.
What’s keeping you from getting started? I hope your old “perfectionist self” hasn’t stepped in to ruin your plans. I’m talking about the same excuses you’ve been using for years: “I don’t know where to start,” “I’m too old,” “I’m going to fail,” “If I can’t do it perfectly, I don’t want to try,” and of course “what’s the point?”
Learn something new. It is never too late to challenge yourself. Experts say that stimulating the brain is good for you.
Explore new ideas:
• If you aren’t a high school graduate; study for your GED
• If you have always wanted to get a degree, now is the time. On-line classes make school available for everyone.
• Consider tutorials or YouTube Videos to learn something new.
Look at your list again:
• Recognize that you can’t do them all. Pick one.
• Order everything you will need from a store that delivers or on-line.
• Get a big desk calendar and block off work periods.
• Get up, get dressed, have breakfast, and get busy.
Call a friend and ask if they would like to be an accountability partner. They are probably staring at their “want to do list” too.
Think of this as your time:
• Work on your project when you are at your best. You know if you are a morning person or a night owl.
• No distractions; let phone calls go to voice mail and do not check your e-mail.
• Set a timer and stay on task. Little bites. One language lesson, knit once inch, write 500 words or do step one of your tutorials.
Reward your efforts. Allow yourself to enjoy the process. Do not worry if your participles dangle or if your stitches are too tight. Call your friend and gloat a little.
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