Make a Decision to Get Started

Do you have trouble making a decision to get started on a project?  If so, you are not alone.  I spoke to a group of women last weekend and this was one of the big topics of discussion.

There is so much that we have to do every day.  The “long list” includes everything including our daily household responsibilities, children’s activities, our volunteer programs, caring for the children and don’t forget that four letter word -- work! 

Finding Focus

Finding focus is a big part of making a decision to get started on a project.  Being able to ignore everything else on our To Do List (or Intention List) is difficult, but necessary.  Finding focus on what really needs to be done will allow us to do more in the day.  I love Brian Tracy’s philosophy of Eating the Frog. 

What Is Your Frog? 

Brian Tracy’s eating your frog philosophy works for me and my mindset.  Because there is always something that is “eating” at us, keeping us from sleeping well at night or just simply really bugging us.  What is the most annoying project you have pending?  It may be something as simple as making a phone call that you just don’t want to make or as complicated as mapping out an outline of a new project. 

The bottom line is that nothing will happen until something happens.  It is important to remember, however, that you are in charge of whether it happens or does not happen. 

Decisions, Decisions…What Motivates You?

Making a decision to get started is your choice.  So what motivates you to get started? 

Last weekend, I spoke to several groups of women on the topics of Time Management and Getting Motivated.  When we discussed motivation, most of the room resonated with this idea.  If your space just is a mess and unorganized, invite people over and plan a party!  You don’t want them to see your clutter, do you?  This is a great way to motivate yourself to make a decision and get a project started. 

Another motivator is to decide to reward yourself when you complete a project.  When I organize my _________ (fill in the blank), I will take my spouse out to dinner and a movie.  Give yourself something as a reward for completing your project.

Are You Just Being Lazy?

This may hit a nerve for some of you.  And, it if does, I apologize in advance. 

Sometimes, what keeps us from making a decision to get started is that we are just simply lazy and don’t want to do it.  If this is the case, you do have an option.  Hire someone to do it for you.  Or, just pick up the phone and ask a professional for a quote for the job.  Once you hear their price, you may just find that you are motivated to do it yourself!  After all, it is something that you can do…right?  You just have not made the decision to do it yourself.  Maybe now is the time.

Make a decision today to knock off one item from your 'To Do' list.  Don’t procrastinate any longer.

Linda Clevenger, Organization Direct
www.organizationdirect.com