“The best way to get something done is to begin.”
Unknown
It’s easy to feel stuck at the starting line. The fear of making a mistake, choosing the wrong step, or not knowing where to begin can keep even the best ideas grounded. I’ve been there, staring at a mountain of possibilities, frozen by the weight of getting it “right.” But here’s the truth: action, not perfection, is the cure.
One Small Step to Break the Stalemate
The next time you find yourself hesitant to start, try this: write down three things you could do to move forward. They don’t have to be perfect steps, just possible ones. Then circle the simplest, most manageable one and commit to it.
It’s surprising how momentum works. Even the smallest action can loosen the grip of inertia. If you’re not sure where to start, don’t let that stop you. There are tools to help spark ideas. For example, search online, open a notebook, or ask someone you trust for their perspective.
When You Need Inspiration
If you’re still struggling, take 14 minutes to watch Tim Urban’s TED Talk, Inside the Mind of a Master Procrastinator. Urban’s humor and relatable stories about procrastination will resonate—and might just help you laugh your way into action.
A Call to Begin
Leadership isn’t about knowing every answer before you begin—it’s about stepping forward, even when the path isn’t fully clear. Trust me, you’re not alone in the hesitation, but you also hold the power to move past it.
As Nike famously reminds us: “Just do it.” The power to get things done begins with a single, intentional step. What will yours be?