You already know the importance of taking action to achieve your goals, but you may not be taking the action you really need to.
Are you ruminating too much?
Maybe you’re replaying events from the day – dwelling on something that, in the big picture, really doesn’t matter.
When I hear clients say, “I’ve been thinking about doing…” or “I meant to…” I know they haven’t taken real action.
Interestingly, women tend to ruminate more than men.
Thinking is a good thing. But too much of it will drive you crazy.
Here are some ideas to help you break out of the loop and stop ruminating:
● Ask yourself, “What would make it easier for me to take the action I know I need to take?”
● Tell someone what you are going to do by when. You’ll build your own accountability.
● Consider where you will be if you don’t take any action. (Hint: Stuck in your head.)
● Trust that you’ll make the best decision. Make your move.
Some people are just wired to overthink things. (You know who you are.) Don’t over complicate.
Stop the negative “what if” thinking. Replace it with “because” thinking. Instead of thinking: “What if (bad stuff) happens as a result of my action?”
Replace it with: “I will take this action because (important reason).”
In other words, reinforce why it’s important to take action, even if you’re not sure what the exact result will be. Believe good will come.
When you’re motivated to make the highest impact you can make, trust you will move through or overcome whatever holds you back – even if it’s your own thoughts at times.
Gayle Lantz is a leadership and career expert who helps established leaders serve and succeed in new ways that make a significant difference in their life and work.