Table of Contents
Teaching on Time and Procrastination
In Navajo teachings, there is a phrase that emphasizes the importance of timely action: “Do not take your time.” This principle encourages individuals not to delay tasks but to accomplish what is necessary in the moment, ensuring future actions can proceed unimpeded.
Time, as taught in Navajo culture, is a resource that cannot be saved or stored. Therefore, it is essential to use it productively. Procrastination is viewed as a reflection of character. People known to delay tasks are often judged, which can impact their family’s reputation within the community. When entrusted with responsibilities, individuals are expected to act without delay, completing tasks from start to finish.
Life Stages and Personal Responsibility
In Navajo tradition, life progresses through distinct stages, each with responsibilities appropriate to that stage. As an infant, one relies on others for care, but as individuals grow, they learn independence through activities like crawling, walking, and self-feeding. Adulthood, then, is marked by self-sufficiency and the responsibility to meet personal and communal obligations.
Movement, both literal and metaphorical, is an important concept in Navajo teachings. Planning, acting with intention, and maintaining hope and faith in the outcomes are encouraged. By focusing on growth across four areas—intellect, emotions, physical health, and spirituality—individuals can navigate life responsibly and effectively.
Avoiding Infantile Behavior in Adulthood
The teachings caution against reverting to behaviors characteristic of infancy or adolescence. For example, adults are encouraged not to use emotions like anger or sadness to manipulate others, a behavior deemed inappropriate for mature individuals. Instead, adulthood involves handling challenges and emotions constructively, focusing on intellectual, emotional, physical, and spiritual growth.
The Importance of Change and Courage
To avoid procrastination, individuals must actively pursue personal growth, which often involves changing harmful aspects of their character. This requires courage, as these changes can be challenging. A friend of the speaker once advised, “Just do it,” emphasizing the need for action in overcoming fears and pursuing necessary change. This action-oriented approach extends across all facets of life—mind, emotions, physical environment, and spiritual self.
Making amends is another important part of change, helping individuals to fully commit to positive growth and preventing regression into past behaviors. By amending past wrongs, individuals strengthen their resolve and contribute positively to their communities.
The Beauty Way Path and Future Opportunities
The concept of “The Beauty Way Path” in Navajo culture highlights the importance of continual forward movement. Procrastination hinders progress on this path, as clinging to past issues complicates one’s journey and burdens others. To truly walk this path, one must be prepared to embrace change, despite its difficulty, and to courageously move forward.
Navajo teachings emphasize that taking advantage of present opportunities prepares individuals for future opportunities. Delaying necessary actions today may limit one’s potential to seize tomorrow’s possibilities.
