Imagine trying to water your bamboo with a bucket that has holes in it or one that has no bottom. A leaky bucket is one that lets in negativity, worry, doubt and gossip—all of which are drains on your enthusiasm and energy. Bamboo farmers must keep their buckets full of fresh water, and to do that you must fix your leaks!
“Procrastination is the ultimate thief—it steals both time and money.”
What if there’s something you really need to accomplish that is a step toward watering your dream or bamboo, but you just don’t want to do it? If you keep procrastinating and putting off something you really need to get done, you’re creating a leak in your bucket. Each day that you delay creates a bigger leak in your energy—your bucket. Instead of dedicating wasted energy toward dreading what you have to do, take care of it now and fix that leak!
“Get out of your own way.”
To fix leaks in your bucket, create and follow a daily maintenance routine by asking yourself these questions:
What gives you energy and inspiration?
What can you do to increase your energy and inspiration?
What drains your energy and inspiration?
What can you do to avoid the things that drain your energy and inspiration?
“Arguing for limitations assures you will keep them.”
What leaks can you fix today? Please add to the conversation—comment below or on Twitter at @gregbellspeaks. To learn more about how to fix your leaks read chapter 7, Self-Discipline, in Water The Bamboo.