Most people get one thing wrong about progress. They think the hardest part is the grind, the discipline, or the consistency.

It is not.

The hardest part is the beginning. The first step. The moment you move from thinking to acting.

Last year, I wanted to get back into better shape by weight lifting in my forties. I hired a personal trainer to help me get consistent. Every session began the same way. Before I touched a weight, he looked at me and said:

“Congratulations. The hardest part is over. You showed up.”

It seems elementary. I felt it was almost sad that he had to say it. But he was right.
Starting was the battle. Everything after was a gravy train with biscuit wheels. That may not be the best analogy, but you get my point.

Most people talk about starting, but they do not.
Most people want to start, but they wait for the perfect moment.
Most people dream about beginning, but they do not take the first step.

However, nothing meaningful can happen until you show up.

Getting out of bed when you feel tired. Walking into the gym when you feel self-conscious. Sitting down at the computer when you feel stuck. Dialing the first sales phone number when fear whispers that you are not ready.

Starting requires courage. That is you today. I do not know what your first step is, but make sure you achieve the hardest part. Show up.

Because if you can just show up, you are way ahead of the game.

Nothing meaningful can happen until you show up.

P.S. Want to train your mindset in just 7 days? The Daily Optimism Blueprint is brand new, and it’s just for you. It’s a blueprint to help you build stronger self-talk and start each day with clarity. Get it here for only $17.

Check out the Optimistic Outlooks podcast and leave a review to help the show grow.

Use Your Gifts,
John Eades
Creator, The Leadership Lens & The Optimistic Outlook

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