Thoughts on Getting Started

Where do I start?

Simple question with a killer punch.

A punch in the air for hurray or a metaphorical punch in the gut of deflation.

All depending on framing and feelings.

For example:

“Now, where do I start?!” = Purposeful and curious.

…or…

“Oh my word, where do I start?” = Disheartened and fearful.

Let’s dig a bit deeper.

Feel it

If you’re naturally pessimistic or you’re feeling negative, it can be a challenge to see beyond possible bad outcomes or reasons for things going awry.

Consequently, there can be an almost fatalistic feeling about change and starting something new.

Disheartenment, fear or disinterest can then creep in. Bringing negative baggage to your “where do I start?” question.

Taking a proactive, positive, pragmatic stance brings feelings of empowerment, curiosity and possibility to your “where do I start?” question.

Tip: You can help yourself enter the Positive Zone by reflecting on situations where you did something new and the associated beneficial outcomes.

Frame it

Some people ‘shoot-from-the-hip’ as the saying goes. Immediate, reactive, fearless. They have no problem knowing where to start; they just…start.

Not everyone is wired this way. And balancing risk and reward requires a little more thought around context and your reasons for starting something.

Once you appreciate more about why you want or need to start something, you can commit to it. And use your whys and aims as a rallying call if you meet a challenge or motivators if you lose momentum.

Tip: You can help yourself enter the Purpose Zone by reflecting on what it is you want to start, why you want to do it plus your hopes or aims.

And finally…

Start it

Bright ideas, cool solutions, career opportunities, all come to nothing unless you move into action.

That’s where the real learning happens and progress is made.

Hypothetical scenarios help you generate ideas and formulate plans. They cannot replace real-life.

A friend of mine once told me a story from early in their career. Having worked on an idea; got the info they needed to support their proposal; they presented it to their boss.

After discussing the ins and outs, their boss (who, by the way, they worked with for several years) gave a simple answer…

… J – F – D – I

… Just Flippin Do It!

image courtesy of The Digital Artist on Pixabay