"Do It Now"

"श्वः कार्यमद्य कुर्वीत, पूर्वाह्णे चापराह्णिकम् ।

न हि प्रतीक्षते मृत्युः, कृतं वास्य न वा कृतम् ॥" Manusmriti 2.6

Word-to-word meaning:

श्वः कार्यम् (śvaḥ-kāryam) - tomorrow's work

अद्य (adya) - today

कुर्वीत (kurvīta) - should do

पूर्वाह्णे (pūrvāhṇe) - in the morning

च (ca) - and

अपराह्णिकम् (aparāhṇikam) - afternoon

न (na) - not

हि (hi) - indeed

प्रतीक्षते (pratīkṣate) - waits

मृत्युः (mṛtyuḥ) - death

कृतम् (kṛtam) - what has been done

वास्य (vāsya) - to be done (वा (vā) - or, अस्य (asya) - of him/her/it)

न (na) - not

वा (vā) - or

कृतम् (kṛtam) - what has been done

Shloka meaning:

"Tomorrow's work should be done today, and afternoon's in the morning. Indeed, the death does not wait for what has been done or what remains undone."

Kannada meaning:

"ನಾಳೆಯ ಕೆಲಸವನ್ನು ಇಂದೇ ಮಾಡಬೇಕು, ಮಧ್ಯಾಹ್ನದ ಕೆಲಸವನ್ನು ಬೆಳೆಗ್ಗೆ ಮಾಡಬೇಕು. ವಾಸ್ತವವಾಗಿ,  ಸಾವು ನಿನ್ನ ಕೆಲಸ ಮುಗಿದಿದೆಯೋ ಅಥವಾ ಇಲ್ಲವೋ ಎಂಬುದನ್ನು ಕಾಯುವುದಿಲ್ಲ."

Hindi meaning:

"कल का काम आज ही करना होगा, सुबह का काम दोपहर को करना होगा। दरअसल, मौत आपका काम पूरा होने या न होने का इंतज़ार नहीं करती।"

Discussion:

The quote "Tomorrow's work should be done today, and afternoon's in the morning. Indeed, death does not wait for what has been done or what remains undone" presents a compelling perspective on time management, urgency, and mortality. Let's delve into its meaning and implications:

1. **Immediate Action and Efficiency**:

- "Tomorrow's work should be done today" emphasizes the importance of taking proactive steps and not delaying tasks. It encourages individuals to tackle responsibilities promptly rather than leaving them for later. This approach fosters efficiency and reduces the risk of tasks piling up or deadlines being missed.

2. **Optimal Time Utilization**:

- "Afternoon's in the morning" suggests that tasks scheduled for later in the day should be addressed earlier when energy levels are typically higher and distractions are fewer. This aligns with principles of effective time management, where prioritizing important tasks early in the day can lead to better productivity and outcomes.

3. **Awareness of Mortality and Time's Value**:

- The phrase "Indeed, death does not wait for what has been done or what remains undone" serves as a poignant reminder of the finite nature of life. It underscores the urgency of making the most out of each moment and not taking time for granted. It encourages a mindset where one strives to achieve meaningful goals and fulfill responsibilities without delay.

4. **Philosophical and Psychological Impact**:

- This quote prompts philosophical reflection on the choices we make regarding time and productivity. It challenges individuals to consider how they prioritize tasks and allocate their energy throughout the day. It also encourages a proactive approach to life, where one aims to minimize regrets by acting decisively and responsibly.

5. **Practical Application and Personal Growth**:

- Practically, this quote advocates for disciplined time management and a proactive mindset. By completing tasks promptly and efficiently, individuals can reduce stress, enhance productivity, and achieve a sense of accomplishment. It promotes habits that contribute to personal growth and fulfillment.

Conclusion:

The quote "Tomorrow's work should be done today, and afternoon's in the morning. Indeed, death does not wait for what has been done or what remains undone" encapsulates a profound wisdom about seizing the present moment, managing time effectively, and recognizing the impermanence of life. By adopting a proactive approach to tasks and responsibilities, individuals can enhance their productivity, reduce procrastination, and ultimately lead a more fulfilling and purposeful life. It reminds us to value time as our most precious resource and to use it wisely in pursuit of our goals and aspirations.