Determined to Dance Podcast

Welcome to the Determined to Dance podcast with your host, Jennifer Hallmark.

Today’s episode, “Busyness Vs. Procrastination” focuses on the reasons behind being overly busy and how it feeds the procrastinating lifestyle.

Are you ready? The world would have us march to its chaotic beat but God invites us to dance in His will and His way. Let’s take a moment to be energized, refreshed, and motivated to face the day, one spin and twirl at a time.

Show Notes: Busyness Vs. Procrastination

I’m busy.

You’re busy.

We are all busy. Not so much in 2020 but we’re in a new year, much of life is back to a resemblance of normal, and once again, I’m so busy.

I mean, look at my credentials: mom, Mamaw, cook, gardener, babysitter, taxi driver, bill payer, and church member. Add to that blogger, podcaster, writer, and we haven’t even covered my hobbies. How could I even think of procrastinating in my very full life?

Easy. Let’s go back a few days. I’m considering a major rework of my latest unpublished novel. That’ll mean a lot of mental effort and imagination. In the middle of summer. When I have more babysitting and a vegetable garden to pick, process, and put up.

So, what did I do when I awoke? I cleaned my canister set and the sugar bowl and the creamer pitcher. And then started reading. Once again, drawn away from the dance by doing something safe. Comfortable. Unnecessary.

Has this ever happened to you? There’s something you need to do but instead, you accomplish something that doesn’t matter and feel okay about it because you were, at least, busy.

Busy but not productive.

I’ve thought of four reasons why I’m often living at a hectic pace:

I’m avoiding decisions I need to make or difficult tasks I should accomplish. Like when I clean or read or play Candy Crush instead of writing or working on a podcast episode.

I struggle to say no. If I’m doing something for someone else, I don’t feel as guilty when I get behind in my writing or podcasting.

I don’t have to think. When I’m super busy, I can ignore problems or issues.

I plan poorly. Just the other day, I realized I had planned to help at Vacation Bible School, take my mom to the doctor, and work on my podcast on the same day. I didn’t write this down and my memory failed me.

 

When I finally crawl in bed after an overly busy, unproductive day, the guilt attacks. Shame raises its ugly head, and I beat myself up over another wasted day.

Why do I keep doing this and how can I change? I want to dance with God, not get the clean house of the year award.

If you look over my list, one thing is clear. I’m avoiding, putting things off. Mainly because they are difficult or painful. Why? I believe for me, and maybe for you too, that I haven’t made enough space in my life to breathe. Recover from the daily grind. Process life like I need to.

I need restoration.

Don’t get me wrong. I like writing and podcasting and enjoy my grandkids and the garden. But lately, it all tires me out. I’ve lost the ability to rest, recover, process, and be restored. I make my own schedule and I’m the only one who can change the place I’ve found myself in.

How? I feel the edge of a headache as I even think about thinking. Man, am I messed up?

I’ve started reading a book by John Eldredge, Get Your Life Back: Everyday Practices for a World Gone Mad. The title alone called to my tired, empty soul. I’ve started the first thing he talks about in the book called The One Minute Pause. Eldredge says, after one busy, crazy morning: “I finally do what I should have from the beginning—I pause, get quiet, settle down. I give myself permission to simply pause, a little breathing room to come back to myself and God.”

I must have more “pauses” in my life if I’m to dance with, and enjoy God and all the plans and purposes he has for me. Some ways come to mind that I’d like to share:

First, each time I feel stressed or rushed, I’ll stop for a moment. Get up and walk around. Cut off the noise. Hide in the bathroom. Whatever it takes to give all the insanity to God and ask Him to fill me afresh with His presence.

I forget sometimes but I’m getting better. I’ve also stopped multi-tasking, you know, the way you start five different tasks at one time and don’t finish any? One thing at a time from now on and even if I’m bored or whatever, go ahead and finish before starting something else.

Except for laundry. I always have laundry washing or drying. Or so it seems. 😊

I’m learning to say “no” more often and when I do say yes, add it to my trusty Google calendar. So, I’m not overloaded like the other day. I need to have some space to rest and recover.

And last but not least, I’m going to take time to think, ponder, daydream, and imagine. God gave us beautiful, awesomely complex minds and imaginations and he did it for our good. Not so we’d sit around and worry and fret but so we could enjoy God and our life.

To the full and running over.

I’ve started the above steps and though I’m still weary at times, I see the tiniest glimpse of hope once again, rising above the skyline like the first glimmer of sunlight right at dawn. I’m rearranging my schedule as much as I can and taking advantage of quiet moments. Not to hide and play it safe but to bring my moment to God, enjoy music, beauty, and be restored.

One fragment at a time. I’ll probably always have a tendency to overdo and then procrastinate but I believe God is teaching me something beautiful. And I’m willing to learn.

To change.

To find the strength to dance again.

Let’s pray:

Father God, we so want to live this life in the right way, a good way. But often we exchange intimacy with You for an overwhelming to-do list, one that is as revealing as a garment made of fig leaves. We repent of our hiding and ask you to cover us again with your love and mercy and grace. We want to live life fully and believe you will show us how. We give our busyness to you in exchange for peace. Thank you, Abba. In Jesus’ name, amen.

I’m so thankful that God is patient with me. With us. Next week, we’ll talk more about focus and priorities and how finding a planner or calendar that works for you will ease the busyness and our tendency to procrastinate.

Until then, stay determined to dance.

Links mentioned in this episode:

My website

My debut novel, Jessie’s Hope

Get Your Life Back by John Eldredge

Remember: Busyness Vs. Procrastination

Video of the week:

I absolutely love music and each week I’d like to share a relevant song we can enjoy together.

https://youtu.be/ksqH6OHrkYs

Welcome to the Determined to Dance podcast with your host, Jennifer Hallmark. Today’s episode, “4 Ways to Conquer Procrastination and the Fear of Success” focuses on how our worry over the price of success doesn’t have to sabotage our future.

Are you ready? The world would have us march to its chaotic beat but God invites us to dance in His will and His way. Let’s take a moment to be energized, refreshed, and motivated to face the day, one spin and twirl at a time.

Show Notes: 4 Ways to Conquer Procrastination and the Fear of Success

Success. Accomplishing an aim or goal. You finished washing the laundry, the dishes, or the car. You are a success. A goal was set and reached. We were determined to dance and triumphed. Easy, right?

Yes and no. What I found in studying the fear of success is that we usually don’t fear the true meaning of success, undertaking and completing something. Our anxiety attacks when it’s something more meaningful than the ordinary. We’re not talking about chores but changes that profoundly affect our lives. Our concerns are much deeper and grounded in truth. There is a price to pay for being successful, no matter if you thrive a little or a lot.

If we're successful, we might:

Receive too much attention.

Be asked to do more than we are able.

Not be able to keep it up.

Lose friends.

Be disappointed.

And all this is true. Success can change our lives, in good ways and not-so-good ways. Factor in the unknown future of success and we…

Procrastinate. Stall. Hesitate.

The problem comes when we wait too long and the opportunity to succeed passes us by. A position at our job opens and while we go round and round trying to decide, someone else takes it. A contest that publishes short stories is perfect for our story but we keep trying to perfect our work until we miss the deadline. The local choir is holding auditions but our indecision keeps us home where it is safe.

Comfortable.

Predictable.

And many times not on the dance floor with God. Fear of success can rob us of our hopes, our dreams, and our future.

I’ve struggled with the fear of success. Every time I started a new job, accepted a new position at work or tried to go to the next level in any part of my life, doubt attacked me. The same way it does you.

When I was in preparation mode to start this podcast, I worried about everything, especially success. That might mean lots of listeners. The more listeners, the more chance for criticism. Of me. Could I handle that? What if I were misunderstood? Hindered people instead of helping them? I weighed options over and over, especially the name and purpose of the podcast. Could I continue to talk about persevering in the face of the chaotic when my life got chaotic? How real would I need to be? Did people have to see every flaw and how far from perfect I really am? After months of weighing the options, I finally took concrete steps to overcome the fear of success and move forward:

Realized that the fear of success was very similar to the fear of failure. It’s a feeling unfounded in truth. I don’t know where life will lead and doomsday scenarios rotating in my mind don’t reflect real life. A podcast is simply a podcast and I just needed to start.

Began to plan accordingly. I thought of one person, my friend Joyce, and planned the podcast like I was talking to her at a coffee shop with a large vanilla latte. Words of encouragement with no pressure.

Quit overthinking. It's part of that planner in me. In the Old Testament, God sent the Israelites food (manna) while they journeyed to the promised land. The part that always stood out to me was that he only gave them enough for one day at a time. They couldn’t store it up. I plan one podcast at a time, record it, then let it go until the next week.

Think of others. When we experience success, we give other people permission to succeed also. And hopefully, the courage to step out on the dance floor of their own lives and the purpose and plan God has for them.

Now it’s time to dance. I’m focusing on the present and enjoying creating an encouraging podcast each week. It’s challenging at times but that is part of the joy. It's not safe or comfortable but it is real and fun and a wild ride.

I love the Chronicle of Narnia books by CS Lewis. One of my favorite parts is when Mr. Beaver talks about Aslan the lion:

“Aslan is a lion- the Lion, the great Lion."

"Ooh," said Susan. "I'd thought he was a man. Is he quite safe? I shall feel rather nervous about meeting a lion"...

"Safe?" said Mr. Beaver ..." Who said anything about safe? 'Course he isn't safe. But he's good. He's the King, I tell you.”

Let’s pray: Father God, we come to you as we fight against fear. At times, we’re afraid to move forward because the very thought of being successful is far from our comfort zone. But playing it safe is boring and we want what You want. We place our lives and our plans in your hands. You are good and we believe. Thank you for inviting us to your dance. In Jesus’ name, amen.

God never puts more on us than we can handle so we can trust Him with our failures and our successes. Next week, we will cover a topic many of us struggle with. Being too busy and how that can cause us to completely step away from the dance floor.

Until then, stay determined to dance.

Future topics include:

Procrastination.

Reflection and Prayer.

What will people think?

Continue to dance.

Links mentioned in this episode:

My website

The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

Remember: 4 Ways to Conquer Procrastination and the Fear of Success

Video of the week:

I absolutely love music and each week, I’d like to share a relevant song we can enjoy together.

https://youtu.be/VDiETOLBvxA

Welcome to the Determined to Dance podcast with your host, Jennifer Hallmark.

Today’s episode, “Procrastination and a Change of Plans” focuses on how a loss of hope can stop our dancing to the point of us leaving the ballroom.

Are you ready? The world would have us march to its chaotic beat but God invites us to dance in His will and His way. Let’s take a moment to be energized, refreshed, and motivated to face the day, one spin and twirl at a time.

Show Notes: Procrastination and a Change of Plans

My plan had changed. When I drew up my itinerary for the procrastination series, I wanted to follow last week’s episode, Five Ways to Overcome Procrastination and the Fear of Failure, with my thoughts on the fear of success. Makes total sense.

As an organized planner. And planners plan.

Except when…

They can’t. There’s nothing physically wrong with me. Nope, but I’m still frozen. Knocked senseless by something I can’t quite see. Useless in the last few days of writing. Unable to dance with God. I’m trudging knee-deep in the Swamp of Sadness. (Cue the Never-Ending Story references)

https://youtu.be/vE8mFDabqD0

If you’re not familiar with this book/movie, the Swamp of Sadness basically swallows Artax the horse. And sometimes, like Artax, I lose hope. I don’t mean to. My life’s not that bad.

But my writing journey has been turned on its ear in a hundred different ways and I’m struggling. I’ve encouraged myself until I’m tired of hearing my own voice.

Why? I don’t like change. I want life to be one hilltop experience after another. I think we all do. No valleys. No pits. No Swamp of Sadness.

I want lots of sunshiny days. As I write this, it’s raining outside and inside.

You get me. Maybe there are one or maybe two areas in your life that won’t line up with your expectations. It’s not what you pictured. Dreamed about. Spoke life into.

Hoped for.

Those endless nagging whispers grow louder. Give it up. It’s not really for you. You’ve done something wrong or you wouldn’t be here.

Surrounded by the unfamiliar. Feeling hopeless.

Several options appear:

I can give up.

I can stay but wallow in self-pity.

I can struggle to move forward.

I can surrender.

Wait. Isn’t surrendering and giving up the same? Not to me. When I give up, I’m saying I can’t make this work. My efforts aren’t enough. Why should I keep trying? Lots of “I’s” in there, huh?

When I surrender, it’s not to something but to Someone. My God who is big enough to straighten it all out. Give me a glimpse of the bigger picture. And a glimpse of hope.

Along with His all-encompassing, overwhelming, reckless love for me. Even when I’ve lost hope. Lost my way. Lost any forward motion.

Today, I choose to surrender.

My plans-His are greater and better for me though I can’t see it now.

My way-I can easily be directionally challenged when driving. What makes me think I can figure out my way in life without Him?

My dreams-This is the hardest of all. My dreams for my family, my job, my ministry, and my life. I need to place them all in God’s hands.

Losing control is so unbelievably hard for a planner. Not that I really ever had control but in my mind, the illusion is better than the loss. I need to stop and mourn for a moment, then place my plans, way, and dreams back where they belong. My life verse comes to mind:

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 NIV

God not only gives me hope but wants me to prosper and offers a future. His future. But I am so often short-sighted. Surely, I’m not the only one.

My friend, where have you lost hope? Your situation might be much more dire than a job. It might be your life. Proverbs 13 says that hope deferred makes the heart sick. It truly does. I’m glad that Solomon, the writer king, didn’t stop there. He goes on to say that a longing fulfilled is a tree of life. A fresh breath of air.

I see only one solution to my dilemma of lost hope.

Remembrance.

If I’m honest, this isn’t the first time I’ve been down. I’ve trudged through this swamp before. A few times. Okay. Maybe lots of times.

Now, however, is the moment to remember the goodness of God. Pause with me and make your own list.

I remember:

The time God opened a door for me to go to a big writing conference, all expenses paid.

The way he placed my novel, “Jessie’s Hope,” in the hands of the right publisher.

The fact that God loves my family and wants to see them prosper even more than I do.

So many of my dreams have already come true.

The ice surrounding me is thawing. I ask God what to do to move ahead. He points at a novel that needs to have one more edit and a proposal written. I should have already done this but I’ve lost hope that it will ever sell. How crazy is that? God placed the story in my heart and when the time is right, I’ll know what to do with it. For now, I have just enough light for the next step. It’s up to me to take it. Are you ready to move out of the Swamp of Sadness?

Let’s pray: Father God, we come to you today, our hearts heavy from the long journey. We lay our plans, our way, and our dreams at Your feet. You are the only one who knows the past, the present, and the future. Our future. We don’t want to be stalled anymore, in limbo, because we’ve lost hope. Restore our hope and joy with Your great and mighty love. Open our eyes to see that love in tangible ways this week. We believe. Help our unbelief. We want to dance again. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Changed plans don’t have to derail us anymore. God is on our side. Next week, we’ll try once again to look at the fear of success and how scary it can be as it slows our progress.

Until then, stay determined to dance.

Future topics include:

Procrastination.

Reflection and Prayer.

What will people think?

Continue to dance.

 

Links mentioned in this episode:

My website

My debut novel, Jessie’s Hope

The Neverending Story (book)

The Neverending Story (movie)

Remember: Procrastination and a Change of Plans

Video of the week:

I absolutely love music and each week, I’d like to share a relevant song we can enjoy together.

https://youtu.be/okmxFDMYuEQ

Welcome to the Determined to Dance podcast with your host, Jennifer Hallmark.

Today’s episode, “Procrastinating When Life is Difficult” looks at why we put hard chores or tasks off until another day.

Are you ready? The world would have us march to its chaotic beat but God invites us to dance in His will and His way. Let’s take a moment to be energized, refreshed, and motivated to face the day, one spin and twirl at a time.

Show Notes: Procrastinating When Life Is Difficult

I’ve written a new novel and I’m so excited about the story, my characters, and a brand-new genre for me. Speculative. What kind of books are those? On my website, I call them books from off the beaten track. Weird. Eclectic. Fun. Think fantasy, science fiction, and supernatural. In terms of movies, Outlander, The Matrix, Lord of the Rings, Dune, Game of Thrones, and The Shaggy Dog.

The Shaggy Dog? Yep. Disney released this fun movie in 1959. These are my favorite kind of stories. Since I finished writing my book, I’ve worked hard on a proposal and cover letter to hopefully persuade an agent, editor, or publisher that my novel will someday be on the New York Times bestsellers list.

This task? Think difficult. Lots of work. A great opportunity…to dance. Or procrastinate. The proposal is nearly done and I need to finish and send it out. But every time I think about doing just that, my heart sinks. I release a sigh. I go clean something or eat cookies.

Why?

Why do we put things off when they’re difficult or seem to be difficult? Here’s another example. There’s a big pile of clean laundry in my utility room. Yes, I know I’ve now moved to meddling. It needs to be folded and put away after I remove any winter items from said pile. The thought of attacking the mound of clothes seems difficult.

So, I keep the door shut where I won’t see it.

Hmm. Seems to be a pattern here. Why don’t I send the proposal and finish the laundry?

The possibility of failure or rejection. In the case of the proposal, what if they don’t like it or don’t want my book?

I’m tired. I don’t have the energy to deal with the pile or go through the agent, editor, or publisher’s instructions on exactly how to send my proposal.

I’m afraid. What if I never emerge from the utility room or someone laughs at my book idea?

I’m overwhelmed. I have so many other things to do. How do I put them in order?

These are all valid responses and we’ll look at some of them in more detail in the coming weeks. Fear, rejection, priorities, and focus are major causes of stalling or postponing something we should do or need to do.

But Jennifer, how do I get past this traffic jam in my day? My life?

I’m so glad you asked.

First, start with a deadline. For my proposal woes, I decided to send it by Wednesday, the day before we planned to go camping. That gave me a couple of weeks to work on it, then live or die, it would go out into the world. And the laundry? I wanted it done now. No more excuses.

Second, I work on these tasks in small segments. I’ll work on parts of the proposal each day for fifteen to twenty minutes. The winter clothes will be pulled from the pile first and put upstairs in the big cedar chest. Making the task manageable puts me in the “I can do this” frame of mind.

And now to follow through. There’s a great feeling of satisfaction when a job is completed. I’m dancing again because I’m not stuck in the whiny cycle of “it's too hard.” I may never get caught up on laundry in this lifetime but I can keep moving forward with the utility room door open once again. My proposal will be read by someone and it’s up to them to make a decision. I’ve done my part, conquering my tendency to put things off. Are you ready to quit stalling?

Let’s pray. Father God, putting the hard things in life on hold doesn’t make our lives better. Instead, it makes us tired, feel guilty, and out of control. You are in control and long to help us every day. Give us the wisdom to set deadlines, prioritize, and follow through. We love the fact that what is important to us is also important to You. Thank You for being a good father. In Jesus’ name, amen.

We have a plan and God will help us follow through. As soon as I’m done loading this podcast, I’m going to put on my headphones and listen to the old song “I will survive” as I march toward that mountain of clothes.

Next week, we’ll look closer at why the fear of failure affects our ability to start and finish.

Until then, stay determined to dance.

Future topics include:

Procrastination.

Reflection and Prayer.

What will people think?

Continue to dance.

Links mentioned in this episode:

My website

Speculative fiction book example

The Shaggy Dog

Remember: Procrastinating When Life is Difficult

Video of the week:

I absolutely love music and each week, I’d like to share a relevant song we can enjoy together.

 

https://youtu.be/sZ-SwJjkSyw

Welcome to the Determined to Dance podcast with your host, Jennifer Hallmark.

Today’s episode, “Procrastination and Conflict” focuses on the main reason I procrastinate: to avoid conflict.

Are you ready? The world would have us march to its chaotic beat but God invites us to dance in His will and His way. Let’s take a moment to be energized, refreshed, and motivated to face the day, one spin and twirl at a time.

Show Notes: Procrastination and Conflict

I don’t like to admit it but I can be timid. Non-confrontive. Reserved. These three words describe me at times. A life-long struggle with being fearful and worrying about what people would think. Partly from my personality, inherited qualities, and life experiences. We all have areas that limit us from being all we can be. And being timid, non-confronting, and reserved have tried to limit me from the time I was a young child.

What do I mean by limit? Dictionary.com mentions restricted; confined. without fullness or scope; narrow. That’s how I feel when I’m avoiding conflict. It’s like I’m trying to put myself in a tiny, narrow space where I’ll be safe. But what I really do is box myself in where I’m completely unable to dance.

My go-to verse is II Timothy 1:7. “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”

The word fear in this passage is best-expressed timidity. A spirit of fear paralyzes which leads to me putting off doing what I need to do. But we read here it doesn’t come from God. So we don’t have to accept it. We can face conflict head-on with God’s help.

I needed to cancel a credit card. A simple action that people do every day. I put it off for three weeks. Finally, I sat down and asked myself why. What was my problem? Simple. I was afraid the person I would talk to might be upset by my decision, try to convince me otherwise, and maybe even get angry. Unrealistic scenes played in my head of how it might go. For so long, I’ve told myself things like conflict is bad, and I don’t want to upset people. I need everyone to like me that I’ve built a stronghold of fear and anxiety over seemingly simple tasks. I avoid conflict.

How did I get past my dilemma? Or any dilemma in the future where I might avoid conflict?

First, I Scheduled a time to do the task. By adding it to my calendar, I made it more important.

Second, I Prepared. I thought of why I wanted to cancel the credit card and determined in my heart not to change my mind. I reminded myself that the person I would talk to was just a person doing their job and it was my right to do what I wished with my credit card.

Then I carried through. I actually had sweaty palms and a fast-beating heart when I made the call but once I started talking, I calmed down. The person asked for information and read a pre-prepared form about what I’d miss by canceling. I declined, we finished the conversation, and she wished me a good rest of my day.

I confronted and won. For the moment. What happens when really difficult confrontations arise? Maybe working through a major relationship issue with a family member. Or A job crisis. A conflict at church. An internal issue with yourself. What then?

I start by reminding myself that I have a right to express my opinion or concerns. I pray a lot and ask God for wisdom with my words and timing. Then I work with one issue at a time. I don’t try to deal with everything and everybody at once. Multi-tasking tends to overwhelm me and emotional multi-tasking is the worst kind. After I confront the conflict, I give myself grace. Sometimes I have a positive ending like my credit card cancellation. But sometimes the other person is upset or angry or unsupportive. I then remind myself that I’ve done what I thought I should, mainly that I stopped procrastinating and confronted the issue.

It takes facing my fear of conflict to stop avoiding it and move forward. I don’t want to be limited in my dance with God anymore. I know you don’t either. Let’s pray:

Father God, we see that avoiding conflict by procrastinating is not in your perfect will for our lives. You didn’t give us a spirit of fear but your power, your love, and the mind of Christ. We thank you that through moving forward with your word and prayer, we can stop avoiding conflict and deal with life in your way and timing. We don’t want anything to limit the dance. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Next week, we’ll discuss procrastinating when life is difficult or seems difficult. Until then. Stay determined to dance.

Future topics include:

Procrastination.

Reflection and Prayer.

What will people think?

Continue to dance.

Links mentioned in this episode:

My website

Dictionary.com

Remember: Procrastination and Conflict

Video of the week:

I absolutely love music and each week, I’d like to share a relevant song we can enjoy together.

https://youtu.be/f8TkUMJtK5k

Welcome to the Determined to Dance podcast with your host, Jennifer Hallmark.

Today’s episode, “Our Struggle with Procrastination” focuses on one of the deadliest negative actions when it comes to our dance with God.

Are you ready? The world would have us march to its chaotic beat but God invites us to dance in His will and His way. Let’s take a moment to be energized, refreshed, and motivated to face the day, one spin and twirl at a time.

Show Notes: Our Struggle with Procrastination

A few days ago, I needed to work on the upcoming episodes of my podcast. I really did. But it’s late spring and there’s so much yard work to do, not counting getting our above-the-ground pool ready for the grandkids, and let’s not even discuss spring cleaning. The deck needs some fresh paint and…

All of a sudden I’m in a major procrastination mode. I mean, who wants to sit inside and work when beautiful weather is calling? But there is a time and place for everything. So, here I am. Perched at my desk, slogging my way through an ever-growing pile of work.

Procrastination. The Merriam-Webster dictionary’s definition is to put off intentionally and habitually. Also, to put off intentionally the doing of something that should be done. Ugh. Is that what I’m doing? I think so. Before I know it, I’ve stopped dancing and moved onto my own path, far from God.

I noticed one word that’s mentioned twice. Intentionally. Now, I’ve been known to forget an appointment (if not written in my trusty Google calendar) or forget a birthday, or to schedule a blog post. But we’re not talking forgetful here. And we’re not discussing survival mode-that time after tragedy or crisis where you can only accomplish the bare minimum of everyday life.

No, intentional is on purpose. Yard work is calling my name, not because it’s my favorite pastime but to avoid putting myself in this chair and putting together a podcast. Why?

I’ve thought of seven reasons why I put off doing something and over the next weeks, we’ll look at each reason in detail.

To avoid conflict.

Because something is difficult or seems difficult.

I might fail.

I might succeed.

I’m overly busy.

Loss of focus/low priority.

Perfectionism

I’m sure there are many more but these are my top seven. I studied the list and noticed they had one thing in common: Fear. Some more than others but they all deal with some type of fear or dread or anxiety. And that brings us to an age-old struggle:

Fear versus faith. What’s the Bible say? A lot. I love what Jeremiah tells us in the 17th chapter, seventh and eighth verses.

“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, and whose hope is the Lord. For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, which spreads out its roots by the river and will not fear when heat comes; but its leaf will be green, and will not be anxious in the year of drought, nor will cease from yielding fruit.” NKJV

We put our trust AND hope in the Lord. You’ll note it doesn’t say that everything will be fine and perfect and lovely. Instead, we read “when heat comes” and “year of drought.”

Wow. I wish He’d left those phrases out. But if He had, we wouldn’t need faith. And dancing and faith go hand in hand. Let’s pray about it:

Father God, we come before you today and admit we have fears and worries and tend to be anxious. We put off dancing with You and pursue lesser things. You understand and woo us back to the dance floor with liberal doses of love, grace, and mercy. We are so thankful that You are extravagant and kind and good. Help us learn that everything has a time and give us wisdom as we follow You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Next week, we’ll discuss procrastination and conflict. Yikes. I think I might need to trim the hedges again…

Until then. Stay determined to dance.

Future topics include:

Procrastination.

Fear vs. Faith

Avoiding Conflict

What will people think?

Continue to dance.

Links mentioned in this episode:

My website

Merriam-Webster Dictionary

Remember: Our Struggle With Procrastination

Video of the week:

I absolutely love music and each week, I’d like to share a relevant song we can enjoy together.

https://youtu.be/wMmmbJlWhtk

Welcome to the Determined to Dance podcast with your host, Jennifer Hallmark.

Today’s episode, “Waiting: When Dreams are Delayed” focuses on continuing the dance even when our dreams are put on hold.

Are you ready? The world would have us march to its chaotic beat but God invites us to dance in His will and His way. Let’s take a moment to be energized, refreshed, and motivated to face the day, one spin and twirl at a time.

Show Notes Waiting: When Dreams are Delayed

I’m a planner. Yep. I’m that person that has a multi-layered Google calendar, sticky notes on the frig, and a notebook in my purse. Also in my purse is every conceivable item I might need for any situation when I leave my house. I like to plan and have a plan at all times.

In that lies the problem. God has called us to live our lives by faith. And for His plan and purpose. Not mine. I really try to pray and discern God’s will but often what I think is of Him is instead of me. Insert a heavy sigh.

And that’s why my dreams seem delayed. They really aren’t, you know. I’m just out of sync with God sometimes. Or I plain don’t understand what he’s doing.

I’m sure you’ve felt the same way. When a job comes to an end, a relationship doesn’t work, or when your aspirations and hopes no longer seem to have the ability to come to pass, it might seem like a death. But maybe it’s only an interruption.

What can delay dreams? Often, we wait while:

We grow. God plants dreams in our hearts when we’re young, then begins molding and transforming us with the help of our environment, personality, and life experiences. I believe I loved reading and writing so much as a child because we moved several times with my dad’s job. The school and community library became a safe place I found in each new town.

We prepare. God trains us for our responsibilities. It sounds crazy but I learned to be responsible and accountable as a writer through our farm. Caring for livestock and two large chicken houses developed a business mindset and work routine that I still use today.

We learn to adapt. God is busy setting people in place to join us on our journey. Like a completed puzzle, we have a place alongside other pieces. Some are closer than others but all are necessary. The people who are at the dance with us are as essential to our dreams as the dance itself in the eyes of God.

We surrender. If we’re not careful, the dream can become larger than God, family, friends, and even the call of God on our lives. When the devil can’t slow us down from pursuing our vision, he’ll try to push us in the other direction. I’ve noticed this during different seasons of my writing journey. I’ve gotten too caught up in finding a publisher, going to conferences, etc., and then felt disappointed when my plans didn’t come to fruition. The keyword here is “my” plans. At some point, I’d taken “the wheel” of my life instead of following the plan and purpose of God. And I had to stop and surrender the dream all over again.

So, what about you? Have you seen dreams delayed? Or have some even died? If the dream was from God, it will come to pass in His time. Even if He has to resurrect it from the dead. He’s a big God and nothing is impossible for him.

Let’s pray: Father God, we lift our dreams to you today. We often feel they’re delayed because we can’t see the big picture. Help us turn to You during a season of waiting and to learn patience. We want to grow, be prepared, learn to adapt, and surrender to Your greater will. We give you back “the wheel” and rest in You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

God has given you dreams and He longs to take you by the hand and swirl you around the dancefloor of His plans and purpose. Next week, we’ll start a series on procrastination, an action that can delay or postpone your journey with Him.

Until then. Stay determined to dance.

Future topics include:

Procrastination.

Reflection and Prayer.

What will people think?

Continue to dance.

Links mentioned in this episode:

My website

Remember: Waiting: When Dreams are Delayed

Video of the week:

I absolutely love music and each week, I’d like to share a relevant song we can enjoy together.

https://youtu.be/LJoABwNMzvM

Welcome to the Determined to Dance podcast with your host, Jennifer Hallmark.

Today’s episode, “Vision: Dreams and Dancing” focuses on the dreams in our heart and the vision we need to see them fulfilled.

Are you ready? The world would have us march to its chaotic beat but God invites us to dance in His will and His way. Let’s take a moment to be energized, refreshed, and motivated to face the day, one spin and twirl at a time.

Show Notes: Vision: Dreams and Dancing

God plants dreams in our hearts as lights to the path of His will.

Long after I wrote this sentence, I pondered its meaning. I believe with all my heart that God gives us dreams or visions, those aspirations, or hopes for the present and the future.

I’ve never thought of the path to God’s will as lit by our dreams but it makes sense.

In His plan and purpose for us, the dreams He places within are the perfect vehicle to move us forward, from one place to the next. We dream of going to school, finally getting out of school, finding a career, a home, a place, and people to call our own. We are forever fancying the kind of future we see played out in books, movies, or other people’s lives.

Dreams or visions of what could be, should be, keep us in the dance. And what a wonderful gift a dream is. Children have no trouble dreaming. Only when our imaginings have not come to pass in the way we envision do we start to lose the ability to dream.

Let’s learn from the little ones when it comes to dreams and dancing.

First, children conceive. They constantly daydream and imagine life to the full. They are wide open to accept the vision that God plants within their hearts. I’ll never forget my days as a pre-teen, imagining my future as a published author. I spent hours writing and thinking about books with my name on them and fame and fortune.

Second, children believe. They don’t overanalyze or doubt when a dream is first birthed in their hearts. They instead embrace them to the full. I’ll never consider it a waste that I once thought of being a ballerina, a singer, and an artist. It has been part of who I am. I took dance lessons at one time, sang at church, and dabbled in all forms of art over the years and though I never became what I thought I might, my life has been richer because of those dreams.

And third, children receive. Youngsters open their hearts to dreaming and allow them to light their path. Dreams grow us and enlarge our place in the world. As adults, though, we sometimes allow the lights to dim and fade. How many stories have you heard from others about the good old days? It’s easy to think about that one time we danced and how wonderful it was. But why did they retire so soon from their dreams?

What about you? Have you seen your vision of life fall to the wayside, dim beyond the point of being re-lit? God is holding out his hand, right now, as He stands on the dance floor. He placed those dreams within your heart for a reason and longs for them to burn bright again.

CS Lewis said, “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”

I like that. And here’s something Allen Arnold told me years ago that I’ve kept hidden in my heart. He said, “It is time to dream new dreams and tell new stories. Keep your eyes on what is before you rather than behind you.”

A good word as we accept the outstretched hand of God once again. He is more than ready to resurrect an old dream or even plant a new one within your heart. Let’s ask him, shall we?

Father God, by faith, we take hold of your hand and say yes to your dream. Whether it’s a dream rekindled or one brand new, as long as You are with us, we step onto the path lit by the vision. Like a child, we are eager to see where you are leading. Have your way, Lord, every day for the rest of our lives. In Jesus’ name, amen.

I’m ready to dream. I know you are too. Let’s walk down the path together in childlike wonder. Next week, we’ll finish these thoughts on dreaming.

Until then, stay determined to dance.

Future topics include:

Dreaming.

Reflection and Prayer.

Procrastination.

What will people think?

Continue to dance.

Links mentioned in this episode:

My website

C.S. Lewis

Allen Arnold

Remember: Vision: Dreams and Dancing

Video of the week:

I absolutely love music and each week, I’d like to share a relevant song we can enjoy together.

https://youtu.be/RXDsFtODgqM