Good Morning Everyone!
You know what I'm talking about—that project, conversation, or decision that's been living rent-free in the back of your mind. The one that sends a little spark of anxiety through your chest whenever you think about it. The one you've become exceptionally skilled at pushing to tomorrow, next week, or that mythical "when I have more time."
What to do Today?
Today, I'm challenging you to make one bold move toward that thing. Just one step.
Why do we procrastinate on the things that matter most to us? Often, it's not laziness but fear—fear of failure, judgment, or the unknown. Sometimes it's perfectionism—waiting for the perfect conditions, the perfect plan, the perfect version of ourselves to emerge before we begin.
But here's the truth: Conditions are never perfect. And that first step is almost always the hardest.
Research shows that once we overcome the initial resistance and take that first concrete action, momentum builds naturally. Psychologists call this the "Zeigarnik effect"—unfinished tasks create cognitive tension that actually propels us forward once we've started.
So what's your one bold move going to be this week?
Maybe it's:
Finally sending that email to a potential mentor
Blocking out three hours to start the creative project you've been dreaming about
Having that difficult conversation you've been avoiding
Registering for the class that intimidates but excites you
Making the appointment you've been postponing
The key is to make it specific and achievable within a day. Don't say "start my book"—instead, commit to "write 300 words of the opening scene" or "create a rough outline of the first three chapters."
When you narrow your focus to just one meaningful action, something interesting happens—the overwhelming nature of the larger goal fades, and you can channel all your energy into clearing this single hurdle.
I recently applied this approach to a workshop proposal I'd been putting off for months. The complete application felt overwhelming, but I committed to just drafting the opening paragraph—one small, concrete step. Two hours later, I had completed the entire thing. The momentum of beginning carried me through.
What's fascinating is how taking action changes our emotional relationship with the task. That anxiety-inducing project often becomes energizing once we're in motion. The relief of finally addressing what we've been avoiding creates its own reward.
The Challenge
So here's my challenge to you: Before you close this newsletter, identify your "one thing" and the specific first step you'll take. Then open your calendar and block 30-60 minutes within the next three days to take that step. Treat it like any other important appointment.
Sometimes the boldest move isn't climbing a mountain or making a life-altering decision—it's simply breaking the spell of inaction that's been holding you back from what matters most.
What will your one bold move be this week? The only wrong answer is waiting for someday.
As always have a great day and see you tomorrow,
The Casual Workweek