We Defer Things

We say and we say and we say,
We promise, engage, and declare,
Till a year from to-morrow is yesterday,
And yesterday is—Where?

— James Whitcomb Riley

The meaning of the poem

“We Defer Things” is a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, an American poet and writer known for his folksy and sentimental poetry. The poem reflects on the tendency of people to procrastinate and delay important tasks or decisions. It suggests that we often put off important actions and decisions until a more convenient time, but that time may never come, and opportunities may be lost as a result.

The poem serves as a reminder that it’s important to take action and not postpone important things indefinitely because time is finite, and delaying can lead to missed opportunities and regrets. It encourages the reader to seize the present moment and not procrastinate when it comes to the important aspects of life.

How to apply the poem to daily life?

Applying the poem to daily life involves recognizing the message of the poem and using it as a motivation to make positive changes in your habits and mindset. Here are some ways to do that:

1. Reflect on your priorities: Take a moment to consider what truly matters to you in life. Identify your long-term goals, values, and what you’ve been putting off or deferring. This could include personal goals, relationships, career aspirations, or anything else significant.
2. Identify procrastination habits: Recognize areas in your life where you tend to procrastinate or delay important tasks or decisions. It might be avoiding exercise, postponing conversations, neglecting your health, or procrastinating on work or personal projects.
3. Set specific goals: Define clear, achievable goals for yourself. These can be short-term and long-term objectives related to your personal and professional life. By setting specific goals, you’ll have a clearer sense of direction.
4. Create a plan: Develop a plan of action to work towards your goals. Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable steps. This can make the tasks seem less daunting and more achievable.
5. Prioritize and manage time: Learn how to prioritize your daily tasks and manage your time effectively. Use time management techniques to ensure you’re allocating your time to the things that truly matter and not wasting it on less important activities.
6. Overcome procrastination: Recognize the reasons behind your procrastination and work on strategies to overcome it. This might involve setting deadlines, finding motivation, eliminating distractions, or seeking accountability from friends, family, or a coach.
7. Embrace the present moment: The poem encourages living in the present and not constantly deferring important matters. Embrace the “now” and take action today rather than waiting for the perfect moment that may never come.
8. Practice gratitude: Be grateful for what you have and the opportunities in your life. This can help you appreciate the present and be motivated to make the most of it.
9. Learn from past regrets: Use your past regrets and missed opportunities as lessons. Understand that deferring important things can lead to regrets, and strive not to repeat the same mistakes.
10. Seek support and accountability: Share your goals and aspirations with friends, family, or a mentor who can provide support and hold you accountable for your actions.

Remember that change takes time and effort. Applying the poem’s message to your daily life involves a shift in mindset and consistent effort to stop deferring important matters and to act on them promptly. By doing so, you can lead a more fulfilling and purposeful life.