I think that the scariest place to stand is at the starting line; whether we are at the beginning of a new job, relationship, race, university degree, or whatever the challenge ahead happens to be, the start is always the most frightening place. One of the reasons I find myself scared at the start of things is that I expect myself to know how to do everything perfectly from the get go. I expect myself to know where I want to go, what I want out of this venture, and exactly how to reach the goal.
Goal-setting and problem-solving prior to embarking on an endeavour is a wonderful idea, but often we cannot anticipate every outcome, or learning experience or opportunity that we may encounter along the way.
However, if we fail to start anything until we think we can execute a goal perfectly, or have figured out every barrier or mishap, then we will either never start, or start to late to achieve anything worthwhile.
I think that while planning is useful, jumping in and getting our hands dirty with real work towards your goals is just as important.
So many times my patients will think they have to have a perfect plan and structure in place before they start making any moves towards losing weight and living a healthier life, but the perfect plan, structure, and moment does not exist. All we have is right now: to make a change, to live like we mean it, and to chase after our better life.
We need to remember that perspiration often precedes inspiration, dedication, and motivation. Sometimes it takes hands-on work to gain a foot-hold to inspire us to keep going or fully dedicate our energy towards achieving our goals.
So when it gets scary, take a deep breath and forget the fear. You don’t have to be perfect, you just have to be willing to put that first foot forward.
Just start, the rest will follow in good time.
Dear reader, do you get scared at the start? How do you make yourself take the first step?
