Most people think of procrastination as putting off things that should be done today until tomorrow. However, when it comes to public policy, when it comes to public officials (especially elected ones), it actually implies, still, avoiding one’s own responsibilities, which should have already been fulfilled today, or even earlier! Unfortunately, all too often voters and the general public underestimate the potential and inherent RISKS, involved, when matters are not addressed, in a well-considered and timely manner. With this in mind, this article will briefly attempt to consider, examine, review and discuss, using the mnemonic approach, what this means and represents, and why it is important, in a meaningful way.

1. Relevant; reality; reasoning; inquiry, responsive / responsible; results; preparation: One of the challenges, faced by real leaders, is to effectively address relevant issues, in a realistic way and proceed, with reason, based on the best possible research! One must consistently respond to urgent issues proactively and proceed in the most responsible manner. Only when preparing one for the best results is a priority, the stakeholders and your organization is the last consideration!

two. Ideas; intentions; imagination; ideals; integrity: Everything must be considered, on a risk / reward basis, aligned with absolute integrity! Measure, the best way forward, based on your intentions, and if there is a balance between true imagination and meaningful ideals.

3. Status quo; solutions: In many cases, when the same – old, same – old ways are the main focus, the best a group can hope for is the status quo! Only when all viable options and alternatives are considered, with an open mind, is there a potential for the best solutions!

Four. Knowledge; keep; known: Some tend to procrastinate because they fear (or feel uncomfortable looking for) anything that is not known / familiar etc! Great leaders understand what needs to be maintained and proceed, with knowledge and understanding, to act proactively toward the best solutions!

5. Sustainable; Service; stronger; sooner: Well thought-out plans and actions must be put into practice, sooner rather than later! When procrastination is the trend / approach, the ability to provide the needed service is diminished and potentially impaired. Only when a leader consistently provides the most bang for the buck will his leadership and organization become stronger, more relevant and sustainable – and rewards improve – on that risk / reward scale!

When public leaders procrastinate, instead of proceeding, taking well-considered and timely action, groups often experience a lot of unnecessary things. RISKS! The better prepared and effective one prepares and is prepared, and one is ready, willing and able to take timely actions, the better positioned the group is.