How To Get Started - Activation

• Identify the reason you would choose to do the task.  What is the reward? Why are you going to do this task right now?
• Make sure you know how to do the task & have everything you need to start. Ex: gathering all your documents in one place.  Doing all the upfront preparation work will help you start on the primary task.
• A warm-up routine can help put you in the right mindset & get you physical closer to starting the task.  James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, suggests these steps.
  1. The first step should be so easy that there is virtually zero chance of not doing it.  Maybe it's getting your coffee & opening up your computer.
  2. Make sure you include physical movement, as well. Even if you do all your work at the same desk, you could start by getting up to get coffee, for example, & then return to your desk.
  3. Do your routine the same each time.  If you get coffee in the white cup, don't use a green one next time.  After a while, this habit will be the cue that, this is what I do before I...... Then you will rely less on will power.  And you will be pulled by your warm up routine to start on your primary goal.  
     
  4. Rinse & Repeat!
• You also may find it useful to have an accountability partner. It may be enough to tell someone your intentions & then check in with them at agreed-upon times.  Or you may need more real-time accountability by working with others. You can do this in person, virtually with accountability partners you know, or use a service like Focusmate.

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