Just Do It: A Guide to Starting Without Overthinking

Little steps compound your overall success

Let me guess: you’ve meant to start that new project, business, or creative venture for a while now, but you just can’t seem to get going. You’re afraid of failure, worried about what other people might think, and paralyzed by endless possibilities and unknowns.

Believe me; I get it. As someone who has started many projects and ventures throughout my life, I know that starting is often the hardest. But I’ve also learned that not caring so much about starting can be incredibly liberating and rewarding.

In this article, I want to share why you should just go for it, find what makes you come alive, and start — without worrying too much about what others think.

The Fear of Failure

Let’s start with the most apparent reason people don’t start: the fear of failure. We’ve all been there — you have a brilliant idea but are afraid to take the first step because you’re worried it won’t work out.

Here’s the thing: failure is not the end of the world. In fact, failure is often the best teacher. It teaches us what doesn’t work, what to avoid in the future, and what we need to do differently next time.

So instead of fearing failure, embrace it. Recognize that failure is a necessary part of the process and that every failure brings you one step closer to success.

The Fear of What Others Might Think

Another common reason people don’t start is the fear of what others might think. We’re afraid of being judged, criticized, or laughed at if we fail or our idea is unsuccessful.

But the truth is, most people are too busy worrying about their own lives to care about what you’re doing. And even if they do judge or criticize you, it says more about them than it does about you.

So stop worrying so much about what other people might think. Instead, focus on what you want to achieve, and do it yourself.

Find What Makes You Come Alive

Now that we’ve discussed some common reasons why people don’t start let’s focus on why you should just go for it.

One of the most important reasons to start is to find what makes you come alive. What is it that you’re passionate about? What brings you joy and fulfillment? What do you want to create or achieve in your life?

The only way to answer these questions is to start. You won’t find your passion or purpose by sitting on the sidelines. You must get in the game and start experimenting, trying new things, and taking risks.

Don’t Worry About the Outcome

Another reason to do it is that you don’t have to worry about the outcome. You don’t have to have it all figured out before you start. You shouldn’t have it all figured out.

Starting is a process, and the outcome is sometimes unclear. But that’s okay. The process of starting is where the real magic happens. It’s where you learn, grow, and discover new things about yourself and your world.

So don’t worry so much about the outcome. Focus on the process, and enjoy the journey.

How to Just Go For It

Now that we’ve talked about why you should just go for it, let’s talk about how.

The first step is to find what makes you come alive. What are you passionate about? What do you want to create or achieve? What gets you excited and energized?

The second step is to take action. Start small. Break your big idea down into manageable goals and prioritize what needs to be done first.

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: fear. Fear stops us from starting and pursuing our passions and dreams. Fear makes us believe that we are not good enough and don’t have what it takes to succeed. But here’s the thing: fear is a liar. Fear is that annoying friend that always tells you what could go wrong but never what could go right. Fear is like a grumpy old man who constantly complains and never takes action.

But let me tell you a secret: everyone is scared. Yes, even your heroes, your idols, your role models. They all started somewhere, and they all had doubts and fears. But they didn’t let fear stop them. They acknowledged their fears but didn’t let them define their actions. Instead, they used their fears as fuel, as motivation, and as a challenge to overcome.

So, if you’re scared to start, if you’re scared of what others might say or think, if you’re afraid of failing, don’t worry. You’re not alone. But don’t let fear control your life. Don’t let fear rob you of your potential, purpose, and happiness. Embrace your fears, and then let them go. Use them as a compass, not as an anchor. Use them as a reminder of your strength, not your weakness.

And remember, starting is not the same as finishing. Starting is the first step, the most challenging step, and an essential step. But it’s just the beginning. You don’t have to have it all figured out. You don’t have to know every step of the journey. You just have to start. You just have to take that first step, and then another one, and then another one.

In fact, I would argue that not knowing what you’re doing is sometimes an advantage. When you don’t know what you’re doing, you’re more open to new ideas, new approaches, and new possibilities. Conventions, traditions, or expectations do not bind you. You’re free to experiment, explore, to create. You’re free to be yourself, find your voice, and make your mark.

So, don’t worry about not knowing everything. Don’t worry about not having all the answers. Don’t worry about making mistakes. Don’t worry about failing. Embrace the unknown, the uncertain, and the unpredictable. Embrace the adventure, the challenge, and the growth. Embrace the journey, not just the destination.

Don’t let the fear of starting to paralyze you. Don’t let the fear of not knowing stop you. Don’t let the fear of failing hold you back. Instead, embrace the excitement of starting, the joy of learning, and the power of failing. Find what makes you come alive, and then begin. Start today, start now, and start imperfectly. And remember, the only way to fail is never to start.

And if you enjoyed this article, be sure to check back for more tips and insights on how to live your best life. Remember to share this article with others who may benefit from it, and stay tuned for more content to help you live your best life.