Getting Going is the Tough Part

Self-improvement is on everyone’s mind at the moment. We’re inundated with articles on how to get fitter, how to achieve our goals, and how to make this year your best year ever. We’re certainly not short of advice and inspiration. It’s all around us.

I’ve only got one suggestion to make - to simply get going. No matter what your ambition is, just start small.

If you want to get fitter, go to the gym, do one exercise, and then leave. If you want to learn a new language, spend 1 minute on Duolingo and then put the phone down. If you want to publish more articles. Write the headline, then save it.

Once you’ve made the first step, the second step is so much easier. You’re not starting from zero. You’re no longer procrastinating, you’re on your way. It’s like a weight has been lifted off you. You will have shifted from planning to doing.

After this, you can begin to create the routines and habits that help you move forward. The second step is easier than the first, the third step is easier than the second and in no time at all, it becomes second nature. You’re on your way.

Summary

Getting going is always the difficult bit. It’s hard to snap out of your inertia, particularly in January, when you’re feeling jaded and it’s dark and cold outside. Therefore, don’t be overambitious. Don’t set scary resolutions. Decide what kind of person you want to be in 2024, then just make a simple start. Keep moving forward slowly. If you keep this going, then I’m sure that this could be your best year ever!

The Embodiment of a Flow State

I’m a bit obsessed with the notion of flow. Earlier this year, I’d written about creating a state of flow in a workshop and how you could go about achieving it. Click here. I observed it last week when watching a documentary about the extraordinary snooker player, called ‘Ronnie O’Sullivan: The Edge of Everything.’ Click here for the trailer.

On several occasions, I marveled at his ability. Not only is he a brilliant player, he plays with panache. Both right and left-handed. Amongst his many achievements is holding the record for the fastest maximum 147 break. It was set in 1997 and took only 5 minutes and 8 seconds.

He plays in a perfect state of flow. His mind and body are in perfect sync. He’s focused. He’s consistent. He makes something very difficult appear easy.

It’s a great documentary for those with an interest in mental health. At times it’s dark and gritty, but I was gripped by the way he overcomes his demons and keeps performing. Despite his success, he’s a troubled soul and you can’t help but be moved by the final scenes. No spoilers, but I would recommend you watch it, even if you have no interest at all in snooker.