The Power of Starting
The hardest part of any journey or project is often the first step. We hesitate, overthink, procrastinate and/or let doubts creep in. "What if it's not good enough?" "What if I fail?" These questions can keep us stuck in a cycle of inaction. But the truth is, you don’t have to have it all figured out before you start. In fact, the act of starting—no matter how small—can be the catalyst for inspiration.
When we begin, we shift our mindset from passive to active. This shift is key to moving forward and getting the momentum started. When we stop waiting for things to happen and start making them happen that’s when inspiration can shine. With momentum comes the flow of positive, energy, ideas, and motivation. We can feel like we’re getting the ball rolling again.
Action Breeds Clarity
Often when we take action, we find clarity. We’re often stuck by not knowing what we want or how to do something – and that’s OK. If we start taking any step, we can find it’s moving us towards our goals and what we want. Taking action helps can help refine our ideas and then solidify what resonates.
For example, often when I start writing a blog post I have a topic and vague idea of what I want to share. As I write and research, thoughts become clearer, and new ideas emerge. I often write a very different article than I planned. It happens when we choose to take action even when we aren’t sure. Each action we take can provide feedback, helping us to course correct and find our way.
Overcoming Blockers
Blockers are a common struggle for anyone trying to do meaningful work. We are unmotivated, uninspired, hit a wall, feel stuck, or are unable to move forward. We then stop and wait until inspiration strikes again. This waiting can lead to procrastination, stress, and prolonged periods of inactivity. This is a common topic for my coaching clients. One of the best ways to overcome a blocker is to take an action. I often like to break down into a mini step to get to action. It might be something like, choose topic for blog, pick an outcome you want to share or make a plan for writing.
Ideas for overcoming blockers
- the idea is doing something to stimulate mind & body
- Work in a different room or spot
- Listen to uplifting music
- Clean your work area
- Take a walk, do yoga, or garden
- Try drawing, coloring, or doodling
- Use a mind map
Acknowledge & Celebrate Progress
Progress, no matter how small, can be incredibly motivating. When we see the results of your efforts—whether it’s completing a task, learning a new skill, or simply crossing something off our to-do list—it reinforces our belief in our ability to create and achieve.
Stop and take time to acknowledge and celebrate your progress. It’s a brain hack to help your brain to want to do more. It doesn’t have to be big or expensive. A quiet happy dance can suffice. The sense of accomplishment fuels further action, creating a positive feedback loop where action leads to inspiration, and inspiration leads to more action.
Remember that inspiration is not a constant state. Some days we're on and rocking it out. Other days simply showing up and trying is enough. There will be days when we’re highly motivated and days when you don’t. The key is to keep taking action, even when we don’t feel inspired or want to.
By making action a habit, you train your mind to generate inspiration naturally. The more you do, the more inspired you become, and the cycle continues.
Next time you’re feeling stuck or uninspired, remember don’t wait for inspiration to strike. Start taking action, and you’ll find that inspiration follows. Whether it’s a small step or a giant leap, each action you take brings you closer toward your goals.
What resonates with you?
What action will you take towards inspiration and getting things done?
If you or someone you know would like support taking action, building resilience, career development, change, or has been knocked down reach out and contact me. I provide a safe place to find courage and live boldly.
Latest Client Wins: “Thank you for helping me sort through how to give employee performance feedback.”, “I’m doing really well, and the prioritization tools have really helped tackle my to do list.”, and “I knew you could help me make an action plan after layoffs for my team.” Thank you clients and you’re taking action amidst challenging times.
I’m starting a waitlist for clients. I have space for 1-2 clients in September. If you or someone you know would like support in your career, facing fears, becoming resilient and bouncing back, please contact me. Let’s have a conversation to see how I can be of support.
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Peace, and blessings,
Teresa – Taking action for inspiration!
Teresa Q. Bitner, M.Ed., PMP, PCC - Resiliency, Change and Loss Coach
Partnering with those who have been knocked down by life and want to build resiliency and move forward and live a bold life.
[email protected]
www.boldfulfilledlifecoach.com
Author of:
· Soul Love: How A Dog Taught Me to Breathe Again
· The First Days: Coping with Life after Loss (updated 2nd edition)
· Explorations into the Being and Doing of Coaching: A collection of voices, insights, and wisdom from Austin area coaches
· My Journey as a Widow: A Widow’s First Journal