Activation energy: the chemistry of getting started - Ness Labs

The most challenging part of a task is often getting started. For instance, to get out of bed or to start studying for an exam.

Usually, we make the process of starting much more laborious by adding unnecessary steps. We sign up to a gym that is too far away, or we commit to overly ambitious goals.

In chemistry, activation energy is the energy that must be supplied to result in a chemical reaction. The more energy you need, the harder it is to start the chemical reaction. A way to apply the activation energy principle is to reduce the amount of energy you need to do the action.

Ensure you have enough energy in the first place by feeling well-rested. Then break down the task into smaller chunks that need less activation energy. Once you have started, you'll often find yourself motivated enough to keep going.