The Inertia Problem: 3 Practices to “Get Started”
In Part 1, we discussed five common “inertia” problems that keep you from pursuing your goals:
Waiting for the “right time” to start
Lacking skills & guidance
Low self confidence
Perfectionism
Fear of the unknown
If life were as simple as the famous footwear slogan suggests, then this wouldn’t be a topic of conversation. So, then, what can you do about it?
Start Here: Three Practices to “Get Started”
1. Consider, journal, reflect on these questions:
What do you want?
What are your top goals & values? How do you rank them?
What would it “feel” like to pursue & live out your top goal(s)? How would it feel to live in congruence with your values?
Sit and visualize; write down sensations & feelings that come up.
What holds you back?
Consider the inertia problems above. Which one resonates with you the most?
What is the core fear if you were to try and fail? Try and sit with that fear for a few seconds.
Is your goal still worth pursuing anyway?
How would you feel if you didn’t take a chance? Would protecting yourself from fear or pain be worth avoiding it?
(Be tender with yourself if the answer is yes)
How can you begin?
What is outside of your control? What is within your control?
What is one (tiny) action step within your control that you can take right now?
2. Take a small step.
Do something small, manageable; can be done right now.
Take a deep breath, count to five, then start.
More often than not, movement proceeds motivation. Take a step, then motivation will follow.
Be patient & gracious with yourself.
You’re trying something for the first time & stepping into the unknown. It’s okay to feel clunky or make mistakes! That’s how you learn and grow.
Keep trying! Practice takes time.
Evaluate what practices were helpful.
Consider adaptations or revisions for practices that were not as helpful.
Celebrate (not-so) small victories!
Identify at least one positive thing that you did each day.
Even if it’s just “showing up” for yourself.
“Small” victories are still victories!
3. Rely on trusted supports.
Invite friends, loved ones, and other supportive community along with you in your journey.
Not only for accountability, but also for encouragement & advice.
Foster a nurturing relationship with yourself.
Learn how to encourage and comfort yourself, for when you feel “alone” on your new path.
Consider counseling for a dedicated space to explore the hurdles that are keeping you “stuck.”
Conclusion
Is it truly as simple as “just doing it?”
Perhaps, but it is more nuanced than the tagline suggests. Just like the concept of inertia, it takes a strong (outside) force to get something in motion. There may be external circumstances keeping you “stuck.” There may be even stronger internal doubts that hold you back. You may have desire, but may feel unsure of where or how to begin.
Setting into motion takes time, practice, and momentum. You’ll get to “full speed” eventually, but in the meantime, be gracious with yourself as you’re learning to take baby steps and figuring out your balance. Showing up & trying, even if there’s stumbling, is still trying. And any movement, regardless of how small, is still movement forward.
Are you ready to start?
About the Author
Mark Cadlaon, M.A., LPC (CO), LPCC (OH), NCC, BCN is a licensed therapist Colorado and Ohio. Mark has years of experience helping adults across the U.S. and Europe navigate life transitions, anxiety, burnout, and existential questions. If you are interested in working with Mark, please contact to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation.