Make Tomorrow Happen Today
“Tomorrow” is the worst word in my work life. When someone says they will get to it “tomorrow” I always wonder why they aren’t just doing it now. I remember the adage, “ask someone with time on their hands to do something and it may get done; ask a busy person and it gets done right away.”
Think about yourself. How many things are you telling yourself today you will put off until tomorrow?
Get fit. Not tomorrow, today. Start your workout program by playing a sport today, going to a gym or yoga class, or lifting a few weights. And do this every day, not just a few days a week. Once you start, you will feel the flowing testosterone, adrenaline, and pheromones that exercise brings and build a habit of pursuing fitness. You will feel stronger, even if a little sore. This will happen not tomorrow, but today— and every day, not just some days.
Eat well. Today. Chuck all the unhealthy food in your life. Donating unhealthy food is not a great idea; chuck it, and don’t look back. Clean out the refrigerator, freezer, and pantry. Buy only healthy foods. Write down your new food regimen (we don’t like calling it a “diet”) and stick to it. Tell others about it so they can help hold you to it. Make it fun.
Turn off the TV and all your devices. Unplug them when possible. Read to relax, and exercise when you used to watch TV. Think about the many hours you will gain. Try going a few hours free of your devices. Really: Start by turning them off for just three hours a day and see what happens.
Reach out. There must be friends you haven’t contacted in years; you’ve just been too busy. Now you have extra hours at your disposal. Reach out to people. Talk, meet, challenge each other to games. Be available for discussions, debates, attending concerts, the ballet, and other events. Clear your schedule of garbage and infuse it with love. Today.
Expand your horizons. Whether athletically—with new sports and activities—or intellectually, with new interests. List the things you thought you might do when you retire and do them today. Include totally new things; things that only your wildest, smartest, and most creative friends do. Close your eyes and imagine yourself doing these things. Then open your eyes, and start the journey.
Make tomorrow happen today. And the next time someone asks you to do something, or you think of something new to do, say “Yes. I’m on it. Right now.” Some portion of your brain, or your schedule, or your life, has a few extra minutes to start that new thing now. Not tomorrow. Today.
