How to Actually Get Things Done
Kick the Lies You’ve Been Telling Yourself
“The diet starts tomorrow.”
Sound familiar? It is probably the biggest lie of all time. The problem is we often approach everything we want to achieve in life through that same lens.
We want to become an author. “Oh, we’ll start writing someday.”
We want to get fit. “Oh, we’ll join a gym in the new year.”
We want to publish a Medium article. “Oh, it can wait till tomorrow.”
How can we get anything done today if we are always waiting for tomorrow?
This is the reason why we never get things done. Not because we don’t have enough time, talent or ability. I grew up always being told, “Where this is a will, there is a way.” So it really boils down to building our will power.
As humans it is natural for us to procrastinate. We put off things that do not have a pressing sense of urgency. We opt for the path that requires the least effort.
Our animal-like instinct is trained to survive not thrive.
So then what does it take to actually get stuff done? And learn to thrive in the process?
First, accept this fact — You don’t need to feel like it.
And then, just start.
That’s it. That simple.
Your actions and feelings do not have to align. The reality is that you don’t have to feel like it to get things done. You can physically position yourself for the work you need to do, let the thoughts of procrastination and other distractions drown out and just start.
It is okay to feel bored. To feel annoyed. Accept it. In fact, embrace it. The reality is getting started is winning half the battle.
We all know success is built on habits. Habits are formed through consistent, repetitive behaviour, regardless of the outcome. Building good habits is hard. It is natural to feel resistance. In the same way, getting things done requires us to push through the natural resistance, un-programming years of poor habits. If we push through, we actually get results. And in the process, we build self discipline and will power.
“You can’t wait for inspiration. You have to go after it with a club.” ~ Jack London
It’s easy for us to think that high achievers are some sort of real life superheroes. It’s an easy excuse we buy into. The reality is that those we admire started out just like us and worked relentlessly in the pursuit of their dreams. It wasn’t always inspiring, motivating or fun. So the next time you have a goal, show up, sit down and get it done. The diet starts now.
