Why The First Push Is The Hardest... #personaldevelopment#lifecoaching

Do you feel 'trapped in Amber'? I totally understand. Been there. Got the T-shirt.

Often, one of the biggest issues we face when we take on a new venture is simply taking that first step. The initial push can often feel insurmountable. It feels as if we are  ‘Wading through treacle’ holding us back under some magical lure of inertia.

Others teaches us that we can eventually overcome and achieve remarkable things. Vincent van Gogh, despite his innate talent and passion for art, struggled for years to find his artistic voice and gain recognition. He faced numerous setbacks and rejections, grappling with self-doubt and emotional turmoil. He persisted, working on his craft and pushing through the inertia. After years of perseverance that he found his metier.

I know, it requires courage and persistence to get started. It's like to pushing a stationary car: at first, the resistance feels overwhelming, but with the first roll of the tires, momentum begins to build. Taking that initial effort demonstrates our agency and creates the conditions for natural momentum to kick in.

It’s like diving into cold water. Hesitation naturally arises us as we contemplate the plunge.

It’s not even about gathering our courage and dive in. Sometimes you have to short-circuit ‘courage’ just count to three and go!

However, it is worthwhile to be aware of the pitfalls of 'Uninformed Optimism'. By this I mean it's a good idea to get fit for purpose:

• Learn a little
• Question your assumption
• Be Realistic - do a Risk Assessment
• Be Flexible and apply 'Mental Yoga'

You may find that the initial discomfort is rapidly replaced with a sense of liberation. Any new journey in our personal development will necessarily involve confronting discomfort and uncertainty. But by acknowledging and recognising our fears head-on by immersing ourselves in the experience, we develop and discover new qualities about ourselves. By making a promise to ourselves and keeping it we strengthen our resilience.

As if starting a fire from scratch, that tiny spark can result in a roaring flame. Our aspirations for personal growth result from that spark of commitment and action. The initial efforts may seem challenge us, be met with setbacks and challenges, but by remaining persistent, we can nurture the flame.

Any new venture, be it a new relationship, getting better health, a new job, a new career begins with the courage to take the first step. Historical examples reminds us that remarkable achievements are possible for those set the thing in motion. Whether it's pushing a stationary car, diving into cold water, or starting a fire from scratch, getting started is the hidden capability we all hold within. 

It is within your reach. It just requires the right kind of push.

There are technologies available to promote this. Life coaching is one, setting agendas is another, getting a trusted advisor is another. Knowing about your emotional self is another. 

If a person feels locked in, it is a great idea to look further afield to get the support necessary for that valuable first step.