There are some things I just don’t like to do—like confrontation, cleaning toilets, and saving the world. However, all these unpleasant things, among many others, lay claim to my life on a regular basis.
To make matters worse, I’m supposed to be joyful when I encounter things I don’t want to do (James 1:2,3). That’s a hard assignment. I’m not real good at the “count it as joy” part of things. I’m much better at the “complain and groan” part of doing something I don’t want to do. So I’ve come up with some tips on attitude adjustment for my toolbox of “how to” stuff.
How to Get Something Done When You Don’t Want to Do It
Get Perspective
Recognize that the unpleasant activity will only be for a certain amount of time, not forever. Put a time frame on how long the activity should take, and think about something pleasant to do after you are done.
Get organized
Break things down into smaller units to accomplish. The Israelites took only one city at a time when they conquered the Promised Land.
Get prepared
If you are cleaning the toilet, get the cleaning supplies set out. If confrontation is part of your day, get your heart right and rehearse your wording. If you need to save the world, dry clean your cape and shine up your boots. You’ll feel much better about things once you have done your preparation.
Get praying
You weren’t designed to do big things or have a great attitude in your own strength. Joy is a byproduct of connecting to the One who provides the joy.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him (James 1:2-5 NIV1984).
Get determined
You’re an adult. Nobody’s going to live your life for you. Put on your big girl panties, or big boy shorts, and jump in and get the job done.
Yesterday I took my own advice, faced the pile of bills sitting in my to-do box, and felt great when all had been paid and the budget adjusted. What are you facing that you don’t want to do. Which of the above tips do you find most helpful and why?
In Him together, Susan Gaddis