I often struggle with making that first step. For example, if I decide that I’m going to wake up early for the next month, that first morning is the biggest challenge. If I decide to get in shape, it’s that first week of additional exercise and diet change that is most difficult. Or if I decide to pursue a new project, it’s that initial push that I struggle with the most.
Why is it so difficult to just start?
I believe it’s because before I start, I’m something like a stationary object. I’m set in my ways. I have a set routine and lifestyle. I’m comfortable where I am. Any deviation from this routine practically guarantees discomfort. Just like a stationary object, the initial push to get me moving is the hardest part.
This is because I have no Momentum.
‘Momentum’ is the term I use to describe the phenomenon of when I’ve been able to start something and then consistently build on it. Momentum is when my past actions drive my present decisions, which move me beyond where I previously was.
When I am consistent and disciplined for long enough, I begin to see results. If my goal is getting in shape, I start to see myself getting stronger and looking better. If my goal is waking up earlier, getting out of bed gets easier and I feel the extra time and productivity gained in the morning. The same goes for making money, being social, or cutting out bad habits.
Results inspire continued action.
Results inspire me to work harder and achieve more. This Momentum gives me the drive to put in the work, even on those days when I’m just not feeling it (I’m sure you can relate to those kind of days).
The moment when results first appear is the moment when life gets exciting.
Momentum makes life fun. You take pride in the work you’ve put in. Your confidence grows. You begin to see yourself advancing. As you see the results around you, you begin to catch a glimpse of who you could be if you continued down that path.
The best part is that, just like an object in motion, the more Momentum you have, the harder it becomes to stop you. Every subsequent push gets easier. Each next bit of effort pushes you further than the last one. You have the weight of all your past good decisions pushing you forward. You begin to glide.
The phenomenon of Momentum is one of the greatest tools at our disposal. It is incredibly important that we learn to utilize it. It’s how to achieve difficult goals. It’s how to develop an upward spiral. It’s how to get on the proper path. Simply aim up, and get to work.
If we can get past the difficulty of that initial push, and stay consistent in our effort, our lives could change in incredible ways.