Reading poems about procrastination can help motivate us, remind us of the value of time, and encourage us to take action instead of waiting.
The best time to begin is now, because progress starts with one simple step.
Updated January 17, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer
Procrastination is a common struggle that touches many lives. It often begins with small delays that slowly grow into habits that steal our time and energy. When we put things off, stress increases and opportunities quietly slip away.
These poems are meant to encourage you to take positive steps forward. Let them remind you that even small actions matter and that starting today is always better than waiting for tomorrow.
Procrastination is our deadly foe,
For tomorrow it'll continue to grow;
The task at hand just get it done,
It'll only take a minute or none;
Don't let procrastination take its toll,
Or else you might lose control;
Be wise and take action today,
Before the job begins to fray.
Time it's something we can not replace,
Don't let procrastination be your fate,
Achievement waits upon us all day,
Our future success is just one task away.
Opportunity passes in the wind and gone,
For those who wait until tomorrow comes along,
The same amount of time we all share,
Don't procrastinate, don't dare!
Time is a gift that's given to all,
It can be used creatively or used to stall.
A successful person will not let it pass by,
But makes the best of time with a try.
For progress must come from within our depths,
Not allowing idle behavior for it will cost regrets.
Therefore, wise people don't wait and procrastinate,
Make every second count, now before it's too late.
Tomorrow I'll start anew, and find myself content,
With the night ahead of me and a moment well spent
For procrastination, I shall no longer part,
The pressure that comes with it tears me apart.
Tomorrow the energy will flow in waves so grand,
To start out fresh and make another stand,
Invigorated by my newfound plans,
Adventures and surprises await with open hands.
Tomorrow's path is uncertain yet quite interesting to trace,
Toward the future, I march at a loving steady pace.
Thoughts clear as glass this time I'll try again,
To have one more opportunity to begin!
Procrastinate no more, don’t put it off to the side,
There's power in starting right away, don't let it hide.
Success can't come if you do not try,
Your future awaits if you have the will to fly.
Act while the time is nigh and do not put it aside,
The things you forego by stalling can not be supplied.
No gain comes from waiting and complacency won’t intercede,
Too much is at stake; just do it now so your dreams succeed.
Stressed and overwhelmed, I can find no rest.
Procrastination only creates more stress.
For every task that's left behind undone,
The problem is amplified a ton.
Sitting here in disarray, putting it off was no remedy,
I realize I've done nothing but run after yesterday.
It was wrong of me from the start, but I see that now,
No progress prospers when you delay and allow.
Procrastination, an enemy of hope
Offers no benefits, it doesn't help us cope.
Stalling just brings on frustration
For success, it is not a foundation.
Hours pass by while nothing’s achieved
A crime against progress, of which we all grieve
Procrastination brings no luck or good fortune
It’s merely a comfort and short-term diversion.
If you’re told to do a thing,
And mean to do it really,
Never let it be by halves;
Do it fully, freely.
Do not make a poor excuse,
Waiting, weak, unsteady;
All obedience worth the name
Must be prompt and ready.
If you’re told to learn a task,
And you should begin it,
Do not tell your teacher, "Yes,
I’m coming in a minute."
Waste not moments nor your words
In telling what you could do
Some other time; the present is
For doing what you should do.
Procrastination can quietly hold us back if we allow it. When we delay, we often lose time, energy, and opportunities that may never return. I hope these poems have encouraged you to value today and take steps toward what truly matters. When we choose action over delay, we gain confidence, peace, and progress in our lives.
Do not wait for the perfect moment, stop procrastinating and begin where you are.