Taking action matters.

How often do you plan to do something and fail to follow through?

As a morning person I like to get up early and exercise or write. I feel good afterward. But each day when my alarm goes off I don’t want to get out of bed. The difference between having an intention and acting on it occurs in a tiny moment. Do I get up?

I know from experience (and I think you do too) that taking action is hard. How do you make it easier to get out of bed, to go for the run or to ask for the promotion?

I think a good place to start is with habit.

Taking action is a Habit

Taking action is a habit. It can be learned, practiced and improved. Decide to act and take a step forward. Delay and take a step back. With each choice we strengthen or weaken our tendency to act.

Habits become easier with repetition. A fully formed habit is automatic. That’s great news for the long term. But, right now you just need to get started. So what’s holding you back?

What is holding you back?

I often catch myself thinking ‘why is this so hard?’ or ‘why can’t this be easier?’. Often without realising it, I’m being held back by fear.

Fear is a human instinct that comes in many shapes and sizes. I fear discomfort, uncertainty and failure. I’m afraid of what other people think. If you find it hard to take action don’t dismiss yourself as lazy. You’re not lazy. Look for the fear. Recognise it and take action anyway.

Make it Easy

Taking action is a habit. When forming any new habit being consistent is important. So make it easy.

I’m motivated by accountability, so if I want to go for a morning run I make plans with a friend. The commitment to my friend makes it easier to get out of bed. I also go to sleep early and put out my clothes and shoes the night before. Whatever you can do to make it easy will help you succeed.

Start Small

Taking action is hard. So make it easier by starting small. If I’m struggling to start I’ll commit to doing something easy. If I want to go for a run I’ll commit to at least putting on my shoes and going out the front door.

Reflect

When you fail don’t beat yourself up. It’s a chance to learn. I like to make a note on my phone so I can journal about it later. What did I want to do? Why was it important? Why did I fail? Was I afraid? What can I do to succeed next time?

Bias for Action

With repetition, taking action will eventually become a habit. Eventually it can be your default response, even in the face of fear, uncertainty and difficulty. You will have a bias for action. There is no shortcut. Just take one action at a time.

Take Action Today

Taking action matters. It is the only thing that can move you from where you are to where you want to be. So, go for that run, take that chance, ask for that opportunity. What is one small thing that you have been telling yourself you want to do? Follow through on it today.