In this week’s episode of Action month, ‘getting things done’ we are going to look at the factors that contribute to individuals not taking action. These can vary based on personal, psychological, or situational aspects and can affect anyone of us from time to time.
Let’s help each other identify and then overcome what is stopping us for doing the stuff we need to do.
Here are some common reasons we get stopped and the associated strategies/activities to overcome the barriers. (BTW - The top 4 are the main barriers I come across each and every day with my business clients.)
Barrier | Strategy | Immediate Action |
I’m scared to or a fear of failure The fear of not succeeding or making mistakes can paralyze individuals and prevent them from taking action. This fear may be rooted in concerns about judgment, embarrassment, or negative consequences. | Shift your mindset by viewing failure as a learning opportunity | Start with small, low-risk steps to build confidence gradually. |
I can’t be bothered or a lack of motivation Without a clear sense of purpose or motivation, individuals may struggle to find the drive to take action. Motivation provides the energy and determination needed to overcome obstacles. | Understand the root causes of procrastination. | Break tasks into smaller, more manageable parts, set deadlines, and create a supportive environment. |
I don’t know how to or a lack of clarity Uncertainty about what steps to take or a lack of clear goals can impede action. When individuals are unsure about the direction they should take, they may delay making decisions or taking any steps. | Define clear, specific goals. | Break down goals into milestones and seek guidance if needed.
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I don’t have time or a lack of boundaries A perceived lack of time can hinder individuals from taking action due to challenges in prioritization, a lack of urgency, busy lifestyles, time-intensive tasks, overcommitment, ineffective time management, a constant sense of busyness, and the potential for burnout when breaks are neglected. | Learn to say ‘No’, Delegate and outsource, time block, time management | Conduct a time audit, assess commitments, communication boundaries, seek others to delegate to as a learning exercise, schedule breaks and limit distractions. (Turn off notifications across your devices.) |
Lack of Confidence A lack of self-confidence can hinder individuals from taking action. If someone doubts their abilities or believes they are not capable of achieving a particular goal, they may be reluctant to take the necessary steps. | Focus on your strengths and past achievements. | Set achievable goals, play to your strengths, celebrate small victories, and seek support or feedback. |
Overwhelm Feeling overwhelmed by the complexity or magnitude of a task can lead to inaction. When individuals perceive a task as too daunting, they may procrastinate or avoid taking action altogether. | Break tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. | Prioritize tasks, create a timeline, and tackle one step at a time. |
Perfectionism The desire for perfection can be a barrier to action. Some individuals may delay taking steps until they believe conditions are perfect or until they can achieve flawless results. | Embrace the idea of progress over perfection. | Set realistic standards, and acknowledge that mistakes are part of the learning process. |
Procrastination The tendency to delay tasks can be a significant barrier to action. Procrastination often involves avoiding tasks due to a variety of reasons, including a lack of motivation, difficulty concentrating, or a preference for short-term rewards. | Understand the root causes of procrastination. | Break tasks into smaller, more manageable parts, set deadlines, and create a supportive environment. |
Negative Mindset Pessimistic thinking and a negative mindset can undermine motivation and hinder individuals from taking positive actions. Believing that one is destined to fail can become a self-fulfilling prophecy. | Challenge negative thoughts and cultivate a positive mindset. | Practice self-affirmation, focus on strengths, and surround yourself with positive influences. |
Comfort Zone People may resist taking action if it requires stepping outside their comfort zones. Familiarity and routine can create a sense of security, making it challenging to embrace change or new challenges | Gradually expand your comfort zone. | Take small risks, embrace challenges, and recognize the benefits of stepping outside familiar territory. |
Overcoming these barriers often involves a combination of self-reflection, goal-setting, breaking tasks into smaller steps, seeking support, and developing a positive mindset. Additionally, addressing underlying fears and building self-confidence can contribute to a greater willingness to take action.
So, what is stopping you! Figure out which of the above barriers happens most to you or your team and try something new to overcome it.
Next week in our final instalment on Action, getting things done we are going to look at measuring the impact of your actions. Until then Go Go Go!