The seductive space between intention and action (part 2)

It’s easy for our minds to talk us out of doing what we know is right, even when deep down we know it’s what we really need. 

We get stuck in that comfortable grey area, where we’re not really moving, but we’re not really failing either. 

It feels safer there. 

But that’s not where the magic happens.

So what can you do about it?

Here are 5 things I’ve found helpful, personally and from conversations with others trying to shift long-held patterns:

1.

Get genuinely curious about your thoughts (and be honest)

Take a step back and notice what’s going on in your head every time doubt creeps in. 

Grab a pen (or pencil, if you’re that way inclined) and write down the answers to these questions:

“Why am I feeling this way?”, “What’s really driving this thought?”, “What am I afraid of here?”. 

Awareness holds real power. 

The more honest you are and the deeper you explore, the more you'll uncover—and the quicker you’ll overcome it.

2.

List your reasons

Take a moment to list all the reasons you should—no, must—do this. 

Challenge yourself to come up with 20 reasons or more. 

The more you can list, the clearer your commitment will become. 

When the reasons to take action outweigh the reasons to hold back, you’ll have a stronger foundation to commit and follow through.

3.

Give yourself a real talking-to

This one works for me personally. 

Sounds silly, but here’s the thing, no one spends more time with you than you.

So talk. Out loud, in your head, in a notebook, whatever works.

Say things like:

“I’m just going to do it. See what happens.”

“Am I okay with my life’s trajectory if I don’t take this chance?”

“Yes, I do have time. I’ll make time. This matters. In fact, I’m going to start right now.”

“Will I survive if it doesn’t work out? (Yes.)”

“If others can do it, why not me?”

“Just do the next 3 things. That’s all.”

“I need to call [insert uplifting friend’s name here]—they’ll remind me who I am.”

“I’ve definitely got what it takes.”

You get the idea. Say it, and then do it—before the overthinking creeps in. 

Don’t underestimate the power of what you tell yourself. 

You don’t have to flip your mindset overnight.

Just loosen the grip.

4.

Surround yourself with people who think differently

Mindsets are contagious.

Surrounding yourself with people who’ve been where you’re going—or who are heading there too—is gold. Sometimes, just sitting in their orbit can remind you what’s possible and spark inspiration. 

Speaking of inspiration.. 

5.

Choose what you tune into

When the doubt’s loud, fill your space with things that lift you.

Books, podcasts, videos, whatever gives you that jolt of positivity.

You’ll be surprised how much momentum that creates.

Now, no one’s immune to mindset challenges.

Even the most “together” people have quiet fears and inner resistance.

But if there’s one thing worth exploring—it’s this.

Because the way we think shapes the way we move.

And when we shift the lens, the path often opens up in ways we didn’t expect.

It doesn’t have to be perfect. Just honest.

That’s where momentum starts.