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Start small
You might not feel like writing a whole final thesis, but you can write a paragraph or two before lunch break.
Those are small steps. Every small step builds momentum. Momentum energizes and can lead to ultimately completing the long journey.
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Despite all the doubt, fear or negativity, take the leap. Publish that post. Start that company.
When you get tired of thinking about a piece of work but not doing it, say "Okay, let's do this" and do it. Start with something, anything.
Trying to aim for high expectations can put more pressure on you, leading you to avoid work by procrastinating.
Instead, start deliberately badly. When you know that you don't have to make the greatest thing ever, it's easier to start and easier to continue.
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Develop a Routine. Create a series of events that you always perform before doing a specific task.
- Step 1: Start by doing something so easy that you can't say no to it. Your pre–game routine tells your mind, “This is what happens before I do ___.
”For example, In my writing routine I start by getting a glass of water. So easy, I can’t say no. - Step 2: Your routine should get you moving physically towards the end goal. Your mind and your motivation will follow your physical movement.
- Step 3: Follow the same pattern every single time.
When a task you have to do doesn't seem meaningful, reframe your experience. You may not always be able to change what you have to do but you can change how you view it. When you look at it in light of how it helps others, you'll often find motivation.
You're not "filling out boring paperwork, you're helping people get the insurance that could save their life. You're not slaving over a hot stove, you're showing your family how much you love them.
While reciprocity does make people more likely to comply with the request, it also makes us feel controlled, which takes all the fun out of it.
Reminding someone that they owe you a favor does not create good feelings. Scorekeeping is fundamentally bad for relationships.