Action

Are you a thinker or a doer? I’m a bit of both, a hybrid if you will, but I got curious and started thinking about when I tend to think or act. When I act, watch out! I’m like the Tasmanian devil spinning through tasks and getting stuff done. I’m clear about the outcome and usually have a solid sense of where I need to go..

However when the outcome or path is unclear, I tend to get stuck in thinking mode. I focus on figuring out how to proceed and end up researching options (which I used to believe was action, but spoiler alert - research is not action). The more time I spend thinking and researching the less clear the path becomes and which leads to more inaction.

I worked with a coach who was big on messy action. Her advice was to stop overthinking, start moving and allow the path to reveal itself along the way. This pushed me out of my comfort zone as I like to set myself up for the best chance of success. I embraced the messy action mindset and started doing.

Here are a few things I’ve learned as I embrace messy action:

Set a clear, simple goal. Don’t over complicate what you’re trying to do. Define it in one simple sentence and go from there. If it’s a big project, break it down into smaller parts, define a simple goal for each and start. Don’t worry too much about all the details or potential obstacles- just start.

There is no “right” path. One of my favorite sayings is “There’s more than one way to Walmart” (or maybe you change your mind and go to Target). The point is that there isn’t one perfect path to your goal. There are multiple ways to can get there, each offering its own lessons, wisdom and feedback. The important thing is to start.

Chunk down the task. Big tasks can feel overwhelming, but when you break it into smaller, manageable pieces it becomes much easier to begin. Start with what you can do now, small actins add up to big accomplishments.

Iterate as you go. This was a game changer for me. Messy action is about learning as you do. You’ll adjust, pivot and keep going. Action creates momentum and momentum brings results.

Celebrate progress. Don’t wait for the finish line to celebrate. Little wins along the way keep you motivated and build confidence. Acknowledge your progress and use it to fuel further action.

What I learned is that messy action isn’t about being reckless or thoughtless. It’s about accepting that progress isn’t always neat and clean. There’s no one “right” way of doing things and taking imperfect action opens you up to learning, growth, and results.

Messy action leads to momentum, momentum leads to clarity and results. What’s one small step you can take today to move forward? Let’s get things done together. DM me if you’re ready to turn thoughts into action!