A client dropped this gem on me recently: "You can't steer a parked car."
This is a profound truth about progress, decision-making, and generally getting stuff done. You cannot adjust your course unless you are already in motion.
I love that analogy. It is so easy to get stuck in the inertia of overthinking and planning, with the expectation that we need to solve the whole puzzle before taking action. But aiming for the whole solution is the fastest way to stall your progress. Here is why embracing motion, even imperfect motion, is the best first step.
Motion creates clarity
When you are standing still, every possible path seems daunting. The ultimate goal is far away, and you have no idea how to get there.
You need a plan. But you do not need a plan to get you to the finish line. You just need a plan to get you to the starting line.
When you take the first step, even a small one, you gain some clarity. And action generates feedback. That feedback, positive or negative, becomes the data you need to adjust your approach. Movement transforms uncertainty into data collection.
Then you can use that data to make a second plan. The second plan gets you to the next horizon, where you will make a third plan. Rinse and repeat, and even with the inevitable missteps along the way, you will find yourself in a better place.
Momentum builds confidence
Starting is the hardest part. But once you are in motion, momentum kicks in. Something happens when you take that first step that puts you in control and reinforces your belief in your ability to keep going.
Confidence is a by-product of action, never a prerequisite for it.
The more you move, the easier it becomes to keep moving. You create a virtuous cycle.
Course corrections are part of the journey
When you are in motion, you will find periodically that you are not heading in the ideal direction. And that is okay. Use the data you have collected and make your pivots.
Think of anyone you know who has achieved success. I guarantee their journey was not a straight line. They navigated detours, obstacles, and wrong turns, but because they were moving, they had the momentum to course correct and keep going.
From "parked" to "drive"
- Start with a plan to get you to the start line. Do not overthink it.
- Embrace imperfection. Recognise that your first draft, attempt, or iteration will likely be messy. That is okay.
- Celebrate progress. Acknowledge the milestones, no matter how small. Each one is a sign you are moving in the right direction.
- Reflect and adjust. Use the feedback from your actions to make informed adjustments.
When you get that sinking feeling of not knowing what to do next, narrow your focus and take a step. Any step. Taking action breaks the inertia and gets you into the game.
By putting yourself in motion, you give yourself options, you get feedback, you learn, and you get better.
JFDI.
