You are stuck. You know what you need to do and you even want to do it, but yet…you’re still stuck and time is running out. So instead of asking, “Why can’t I just do this?” a more helpful question is, “What does my brain need in order to get started?”
Getting started challenges are a signal not a character flaw. And when you understand what’s getting in the way, you can start using strategies that work with your brain instead of against it.
What’s Getting in the Way?
Here are some questions to ask yourself to help figure out why you are getting stuck.
- Do I understand what to do?
- Do I have everything I need?
- What is holding me back?
- Am I trying to make it perfect to start?
- Is my brain ready to work or does it need something?
If you’ve been unable to start on this task you may find that the sense of urgency is causing you stress and that can make it difficult to think clearly.
Strategies to Get Going
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Start small
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Sometimes the task can feel overwhelming especially if it is really a project with multiple steps. Break it down into the smallest steps you can by starting with the end in mind and working backwards to the starting point.
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Use Momentum, Not Motivation
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Don’t wait until you “feel like” doing whatever it is you have been avoiding. You probably won’t ever feel like tackling it. Instead, set a timer for 5 or 10 minutes and promise yourself you will work for that long and then you can quit (if you still want to.) Sometimes, the getting started part gets us motivated to continue.
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Nudges, pokes and jabs
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Using visual timers, alarms and phone reminders serve to designate a starting time. Setting the sleep timer to shut off the TV or a focus app, reduces the distractions that may be keeping you from getting started. Setting false deadlines or having someone else tell you an earlier deadline can also help motivate.
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Body Doubling Support
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Working along side a friend, family member or even a stranger can help keep you focused on the task. There are online groups including a Work it Wednesday, two-hour zoom call, that helps hold people accountable for whatever they said they would do in each 25-minute block.
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Rewards
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Everyone likes to be rewarded for a job well done. If you are someone that likes rewards you may want to try having a specific reward for yourself after you have completed the task you have been struggling with.
There’s no one “right” way to get started, and that’s why having multiple strategies that work for your brain matters. Even small steps can create meaningful momentum. Experiment with what helps, and trust that every small start counts.