How to Start When You Don't Feel Motivated (The 2-Minute Method)
Waiting to feel motivated is one of the most common reasons we put things off. The trouble is that motivation usually shows up after you begin, not before. The fix is to make starting so easy that you no longer need motivation.
Shrink the task
Take the thing you are avoiding and cut it down to two minutes. Instead of "write the report", try "open the document and write one sentence". Instead of "go for a run", try "put on your trainers and step outside". The aim is not to finish. The aim is to begin.
Remove one obstacle
Look at what makes starting hard and remove one thing. Lay out your clothes the night before, close extra browser tabs, or put your book on your pillow. Small changes to your surroundings do more than willpower.
Let momentum decide
After two minutes, ask yourself whether you want to continue. Often you will, because the hardest part was crossing the line. If you stop, you still kept a promise to yourself, and that counts.
A line to remember
Lao Tzu said that the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. For more short reminders like that, browse our morning motivation quotes or Monday motivation quotes.