Procrastinate on Purpose?

“You multiply your time by spending time on things today that will give you more time tomorrow.” In a world where the pressure to constantly be productive can feel overwhelming, Rory Vaden’s book “Procrastinate on Purpose” offers a refreshing perspective on time management and productivity. Through his insightful strategies, Vaden encourages us to embrace purposeful procrastination as a means of prioritizing what truly matters and looking at time as an investment. Drawing from biblical wisdom, here are three key takeaways from Vaden’s approach:

1. Investing Our Talents Wisely

   In Matthew 25:14-30, Jesus tells the parable of the talents, where a master entrusts his servants with various sums of money before leaving on a journey. Upon his return, he rewards those who invested and multiplied their talents but rebukes the one who buried his out of fear. This parable emphasizes the importance of stewardship and productive use of the resources we’ve been given—similarly, Vaden advocates for leveraging our talents and abilities effectively rather than squandering them through mindless busyness. By strategically allocating our time and energy to tasks that align with our goals and values, we can make a meaningful impact.

2. Sowing Seeds of Intentionality

   Galatians 6:7-9 reminds us, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” This passage underscores the principle of sowing and reaping, highlighting the importance of intentional actions and perseverance. Vaden’s concept of purposeful procrastination encourages us to sow seeds of intentionality by deliberately delaying tasks that don’t align with our priorities, thereby ensuring a bountiful harvest of productivity and fulfillment in the long run.

3. Prioritizing What Truly Matters

   In Luke 10:38-42, Jesus visits the home of Martha and Mary. While Martha busies herself with serving, Mary sits at Jesus’ feet, soaking in his teachings. When Martha complains to Jesus about Mary’s lack of help, Jesus responds, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” This passage underscores the importance of prioritizing our relationship with God and focusing on what truly matters. Vaden’s approach encourages us to adopt a similar mindset by intentionally delaying tasks that detract from our core values and relationships, allowing us to devote our time and attention to what truly nourishes our souls.

4. Delegating Responsibilities Wisely

  Exodus 18 provides a practical example of delegation, where Moses’ father-in-law, Jethro, advises him to appoint capable leaders to assist in managing the Israelites. In verses 17-23, Jethro tells Moses, “You will certainly wear out both yourself and these people… So select capable men from all the people… and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens.” This passage emphasizes the importance of delegating responsibilities wisely to prevent burnout and ensure efficient functioning. Vaden echoes this principle by urging us to delegate tasks that others can do better or more efficiently, allowing us to focus on our areas of strength and highest contribution.

“Procrastinate on Purpose” offers a transformative perspective on productivity, urging us to embrace intentional delay as a strategic tool for achieving our goals and living a purpose-driven life. By aligning our actions with biblical principles of stewardship, intentionality, prioritization, and delegation, we can cultivate a more fulfilling and impactful existence.