Have you ever noticed how astonishingly easy it is to put off doing all the things you truly want and need to do? I know I often find myself remembering an important item that did not make it on to my to-do list, at the most inopportune times.
I’ll think back to an email I’ve been meaning to write whenever I’m away from a computer. Then that cycle will repeat so many times that I may never even send it because I tell myself it’s too late, that I’ve waited too long. I’ll think about how much I want to start getting more exercise and drinking more water during an impossibly busy season in my life.
It’s so easy, (and so common) to put off getting started on something just because it doesn’t feel like the right time. Or due to fear of failure, or lack of confidence, or complete overwhelm and on and on! Some of us are even crippled with complete paralysis by analysis at times! (raises hand) 😉
So how can we ever overcome the infinite number of obstacles that could potentially stand in the way of reaching our goals in life? Let’s talk about it!
“The secret to getting ahead is getting started.” – Mark Twain
That’s right, the one decision you need to make to create the life you want, is simply to get started. It’s easy to say and much harder to do, yet we all know we’re not getting anywhere, let alone getting ahead – without getting started.
So how do we get started when it feels like everything’s stacked against us? I believe the key is acknowledging the power of inertia, and then empowering ourselves to overcome it!
Check out the definition of inertia from dictionary.com:
inertia
noun
2. (physics)
- the tendency of a body to preserve its state of rest or uniformmotion unless acted upon by an external force
- an analogous property of other physical quantities that resist change: thermal inertia
Recognize yourself in there somewhere? I know I do!! So think this through with me? What this really means is the hardest part of doing anything worthwhile is simply getting started!
Countless studies show we are more likely to meet our goals and maintain positive change with the support of likeminded community. No doubt you have found this to be true in your own life – so what are you waiting for? Grab a friend or two and get started! Once you are rolling, you will have the power of forward momentum on your side!
“Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy.” – Dale Carnegie
The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity. –Amelia Earhart
Is confidence, time, energy, or anything else a stumbling block for your desire to overcome inertia? What helps you conquer inertia? Whatever you do, don’t give up! You are worth it 🙂
Infused water is SOOO yummy!
Hi from the Peony Project!
Hi – so true 🙂
Oh my gosh, this is too true! But there’s so much awesomeness that comes out when you actually start getting stuff done. It might take a couple of minutes to get into in, but its so good to cross something off your to-do list!
Ah a much needed reminder for everyday, yes?
Yes! A great read before I go tackle my to-do list for the afternoon – no intertia. 🙂
Love it!
Great article! So glad I came across it.
So happy to hear that Crystal, thanks for sharing!
The secret to getting ahead, is getting started … wow!! Love that! Also a big yes to finding community in whatever you are doing. It totally keeps me on track if I have someone I’m accountable too. Great post! 🙂
What a great point- so often I sit back in fear, unsure of how to start and scared of what it may bring!