Why We Keep Losing to Time
Every day, we chase time—but it outruns us.
We wait for the perfect moment to act—but it never arrives.
And by the time we realise, the day is gone—and so are its opportunities.
But why does it always feel like we’re fighting a losing battle against time?
Let’s explore.
Understand Time’s Nature — Or Lose To It
Imam Ali (AS) described the nature of time clearly:
“If someone delays taking advantage of an opportunity because they’re waiting for a better opportunity, time itself will snatch that opportunity from him.”
Time is a thief.
It doesn’t wait. It slips away.
“It’s the nature of days to steal opportunities.”
The first step to beating procrastination is respecting this reality.
There Is No ‘Better Time’
Whenever you feel a desire to do good—give charity, visit someone, seek forgiveness—Shaytan whispers:
“Wait. Later. There’ll be a better time.”
But when it comes to sin or entertainment, you never wait.
You jump in, saying:
“Let’s do it now while the iron is hot!”
We delay our prayers, but not our scrolling.
We put off Quran, but not gossip.
Why?
Because we’ve believed the lie that good deeds can wait. But they can’t.
Stop Assuming Tomorrow Will Come
Imam Ali (AS) warned repeatedly:
“Now! Now! Seize today! No one has seen tomorrow. Don’t count on your wishes. Don’t postpone today’s work to tomorrow.”
The past is gone. The future isn’t promised.
Only now is yours.
Seize the Opportunities You Have “Now”!
Imam Ali (AS) said:
“Don’t say: ‘I’ll do that tomorrow or the day after tomorrow.’ Many people are ruined due to their procrastination and clinging to false hopes.”
You are not guaranteed another day.
Don’t let delay become your downfall.
Time and Days Are Thieves
“What has passed is gone.”
Forget it.
Your soul will feel lighter.
Most of our grief comes from yesterday and tomorrow—but neither belongs to you.
Only today does.
“Trust in God. Dedicate your mind, energy, and soul to doing today’s tasks. Today is your most valuable possession.”
— @PanahianEN
Final Reflection:
Stop waiting for the right time.
This is the right time.
And if you ignore it, it will say to you:
“You’ll never see me again.”
Source: Ali Reza Panahian