J. R. R. Tolkien: 'It's the job that's never started as takes longest to finish.'

It's the job that's never started as takes longest to finish.

"It's the job that's never started as takes longest to finish." These profound words spoken by J.R.R. Tolkien carry a simple but powerful message about the nature of procrastination. The quote encapsulates the idea that the longer we delay in starting a task, the longer it will take to reach its completion. It serves as a gentle nudge, reminding us that taking the first step is often the hardest, but it is essential for progress and ultimately achieving our goals. However, beyond its practical implications, Tolkien's quote offers an intriguing philosophical concept that delves into the depths of human nature and the struggle between action and inaction.In our fast-paced modern world, it is easy to become overwhelmed with the sheer magnitude of tasks and responsibilities that await our attention. Whether it's a project at work, a personal goal, or even something as mundane as household chores, we often find ourselves putting off these obligations, perhaps under the false assumption that we will have more time later or that we simply do not feel motivated enough at the moment. However, Tolkien's words remind us that the longer we delay, the longer we prolong our own journey towards completion.Looking beyond the surface-level interpretation of this quote, we can explore a deeper philosophical concept that lies within. It speaks to the dichotomy between action and inaction, between life lived purposefully and life paralyzed by indecision. Tolkien's words prompt us to reflect on the concept of time and its relationship to our own agency. We are the captains of our own ships, and if we allow the winds of procrastination to consume us, we risk drifting aimlessly, never truly achieving what we desire.It is interesting to note that humans are unique in their ability to contemplate the passage of time and the significance of their actions within it. Unlike other animals governed by instinct, we possess the capacity for deliberate intention and conscious decision-making. We have the power to shape our own destinies and create the lives we desire. Yet, so often we allow ourselves to become trapped within the confines of inertia and complacency.Consider for a moment the image of an artist standing before a blank canvas. The longer they contemplate, the longer they deliberate, the longer they hesitate to dip their brush into the paint, the longer it will take for them to create a masterpiece. It is only when they bravely begin, when they take that first bold stroke, that the creation can truly unfold. The same principle applies to any endeavor in life - from writing a novel to starting a new business, from learning a musical instrument to embarking on a fitness journey.Moreover, Tolkien's quote hints at the psychological toll of inaction. The longer we put off a task, the more it lingers within the recesses of our minds, weighing us down with guilt, anxiety, and a sense of unfulfilled potential. It becomes a looming shadow, a constant reminder of our own inertia and our failure to seize the moment. The more time we allow to slip away without action, the heavier this burden becomes, making it even more challenging to muster the motivation needed to begin.In contrast, once we take that initial step, the momentum often builds, and the task becomes less daunting. The contradictory nature of procrastination is that it prolongs our suffering, whereas action offers the potential for liberation. With each small accomplishment, we gain confidence, motivation, and a sense of progress. It is as if the universe conspires to reward those who dare to begin, providing them with the energy and determination necessary to carry forth and achieve their goals.Ultimately, Tolkien's quote speaks to the universal struggle of the human condition. It serves as a poignant reminder that the longer we delay, the longer it takes to reach the finish line. It encourages us to embrace the power of action, reminding us that the most difficult part of any journey is often the first step. It implores us to conquer our fears, to overcome our inclination towards inaction, and to break free from the chains of procrastination. After all, it is in the pursuit of our dreams, the pursuit of the tasks left unstarted, that we truly find fulfillment and meaning in our lives. So let us heed Tolkien’s wisdom and embark on the journey of a thousand steps by taking that very first one.