Don’t Over Think It

There are articles that appear all the time to motive you to “do something” about “something.”  It could be about health, exercise, sales, hobbies or a great career opportunity.  Where does the motivation to actually “do something” come from?  It comes from within, and you and only you can make the decision to move forward to do something about it.
 

You need to do the obvious … figure out what you want to do and begin the steps toward accomplishing it---whatever “it” is.  Let me give you a few steps to point you in the right way.  I cannot force you, obviously, but somehow you need to get started if you are every going to do anything about it.

Step One:  Think You Can

Keven Thompson, PhD, University of Canberra, Australia, who is the head of sports studies suggests, “Your brain sets the pace so your body does not run out of energy.”  So, you need to start with thinking about what it is that you want to do.  Perhaps listing a few items on a blank piece of paper is the best way to start.  Once you see the ideas written, you can then prioritize them and visually see them…and after you have the list started, you can add to it and re-arrange the lists, eliminate some and keep the best.  This process gets your mind to thinking it through.

Step Two:  Think Positively

Do not start this exercise with negative thoughts.  After all, you are getting ready to advance into something more rewarding for yourself.  Set aside any self doubt that you may have and focus on the future.  Again, this is all about you!  The “yes, I can” language is a great motivator and telling yourself that it is possible is a great way to begin.  And, truth be told, since you have pulled out the sheet of paper and stated is a great re-enforcer that you are quite capable of accomplishing this task…this new beginning.  Isn’t this about you?  And, isn’t it important.  Of course, it is…so, stay focused.

Step Three:  Cast Aside All Other Thoughts

You may need to stop and stretch.  Take a couple of deep breaths.  Maybe repeat it a time or two.  Go get a drink of water.  Circle your chair.  Do something that allows you to relax and begin the “single task” that is before you.  Namely, you are shifting your thinking to a new plateau; this is a new advancement for you.  And, it is clearly worth your time and your full attention.  So, set aside all those haunting side thought that typically creep in on you...and, tell yourself, “Not now, I’m busy on this one project.”  And focus.  Really focus.

Step Four:  Get In The “Zone”

Star athletes talk about this.  A lot.  Once the basketball star makes that first shot, he immediately asks for the next one.  Hitting the second one, he is ready for the next one, and the next.  His teammates realize that he is in the “Zone” and they start “feeding him the ball every time down the floor.  The same thing will happen with you.  Once you feel it…you will excel.  So, start and continue and keep-on-going … the goal is in sight and you will find that answer.  It is just in front of you.  Go get it.  It will be yours!  Don’t over think it, and as Nike says, “Just do it.”

C Dale Hillard