Mindset Moments
We often wait for the magical day when motivation will strike like a lightning bolt. We tell ourselves, “I’ll start when I feel ready.”
The problem? Motivation is rarely the starting point...it's actually the result of action, not the cause. This misunderstanding keeps people in a cycle of procrastination, waiting for a feeling that might never come.
We’ve been conditioned to believe that high performers are constantly motivated...that they leap out of bed with energy and enthusiasm. The truth is, they’ve learned to act first and let motivation catch up later.
Motivation comes from momentum; when you see yourself making progress, you naturally feel more inspired to keep going.
Let's take a look at some practical tips to getting into action:
Tips for getting into action:
Shrink the first step:
Big goals can feel like climbing Everest in flip-flops. Instead, make the first action laughably small...something so easy it’s hard to say no. If you want to start running, put on your trainers and step outside. If you want to write, open your document and write one messy sentence.
Use the “five-minute rule”: Commit to doing something for just five minutes. Often, once you start, you’ll keep going. And even if you stop, you’ve still taken action — which builds the habit of showing up without overthinking.
Tie it to an existing habit:
Link the new action to something you already do. Want to meditate? Do it right after you brush your teeth. Want to practice guitar? Do it while your prefect cup of tea brews. Want to start wall Pilates? Stay in your PJ's and do it whilst your still in the mood for lying down (you might want to do the morning wee first!).
Habit stacking makes it harder to skip.
Motivation isn’t the gatekeeper. Action creates evidence that you can do the thing and that evidence fuels motivation. You don’t need to feel ready to start; you just need to start.
And don't forget to celebrate the smallest of wins, that will help keep the momentum of action and create muscle memory.
“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.” — Walt Disney
If you’re tired of waiting for the perfect moment, I can help you find small, achievable actions that get you moving and keep you moving. Book a FREE intro call and we can explore this together.
Hi I'm Zoë Schofield
Your dedicated Career, Life & Personal Development Coach.
Clarity + Courage for Crossroad Moments
I help people navigate career crossroads, life transitions and everything in between... through curiosity, clarity, confidence and perhaps a little humour too along the way!
I've been where you are; successful on paper but unsure what's next, perhaps pulled in too many directions and craving something more aligned. My coaching is practical, human and gently challenging. No pressure to have it all figured out, just real support to help you reconnect with what matters and take action from there.
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