Starting is Easy, Continuing is Not (Here’s Why)

We start so many things or projects with a lot of excitement. But with time, that zeal vanishes. That continuity fades. As time progresses, sustaining that initial enthusiasm becomes increasingly challenging. We struggle to continue that momentum. YES! Starting is easy, but continuing is not. The real challenge comes when we have to keep working on it. And in this blog, we will read why is that so and also what can be done instead. We will delve into the complexities of continuing and exploring strategies to overcome the hurdles that come our way.

The Hurdles of Consistency

Consider the scenario of starting a blog or any business. We start on an enthusiastic note, eager to share our ideas with the world. But when we don’t see the desired result or when there is a fear of failure, our confidence is shaken at that time. We find ourselves grappling with obstacles that hinder our progress. We also don’t think twice to give up quickly when things are not turning out as amazing as our expectations.

However, despite our best intentions, because of many hurdles maintaining that continuity becomes a formidable challenge. But, what are those hurdles? Let’s dive further to know.

1. Instant Gratification

We live in an age of instant gratification which means we want immediate results.

For example, if I text you, I want an immediate reply. I am so insecure about the reply that I can’t wait. I don’t like delay. If I want to have a quick meal, I will order something rather than cook. After all, we live in a hustle world. Cooking requires time and effort which I don’t have right now.

These are some of the simple instances that you come across in day-to-day life.

According to a study by Bucknell University, this tendency of instant gratification had made our youth impatient, inconsistent, distracted, and more insecure with a reduced amount of self-control.

2. Changing Priorities

Our priorities are flexible that keep on changing with time and circumstances. As a result of which it can divert our attention and energy away from our goals.

It’s crucial to identify and manage our priorities to maintain focus and consistency. Regularly reassessing our goals and adapting our plans can help us stay on track despite changing circumstances.

If it’s important, you will always prioritize it. If it’s not, you will never fail to have enough excuses. This applies both to your personal and professional lives.

3. Monotony and boredom

As time passes and you dig deeper, you might feel bored or that project might not interest you. That repetitiveness of tasks and routines can make you uninspired, leading to a loss of interest to continue.

In such cases, it’s okay to pause and take a break. Find ways to make the process more enjoyable. Rely on your driving force. Think why you started. That will reignite your motivation to persist.

The moment you think of giving up, think of the reason why you held on so long.

Natsu Dragneel

4. Expectations

Expectations whether from society, family, or peers, can create stress and make it challenging to maintain our continuity towards our goals. It seems as if we are competing in a race and are always under a deadline. Unrealistic expectations will always lead to disappointment and frustration. That’s the reason we should stop expecting these major things from people or even from ourselves.

Let’s say in our personal relationships, we may have expectations of constant compatibility and seamless interactions. However, conflicts and challenges are inevitable in any relationship. When reality doesn’t align with our expectations, it can lead to frustration and inconsistency in maintaining open communication and working through difficulties.

In the above case, learning to set healthy boundaries can help mitigate those pressures, putting things in their correct order.

By setting realistic expectations, we can overcome this hurdle and maintain the perseverance needed to achieve our goals.

5. Burnout and exhaustion

Consistency requires sustained effort and energy, which can lead to burnout if not managed properly.

Engaging in personal projects or hobbies, such as writing a book or starting a side business, requires consistent effort and dedication. However, if we push ourselves too hard without taking breaks or prioritizing self-care, burnout can occur. The resulting exhaustion may lead to a lack of motivation and a decrease in consistency.

6. Self-doubt and fear of failure

When faced with important decisions, self-doubt and fear can lead to indecisiveness and inconsistency. The fear of making the wrong choice can paralyze us, making it challenging to take consistent action and move forward. The fear of being judged, making mistakes, being rejected or criticized lowers our momentum to continue.

Those negative thoughts can sap our confidence and hinder our ability to take consistent action. On the other hand, practicing positive self talk and adopting a growth mindset can help overcome those hurdles.

How to overcome this hurdle and maintain continuity?

Just like a river adjusts its course to flow around obstacles, we too must be willing to adapt, learn from our experiences, and make necessary course corrections. This flexibility allows us to find new avenues and fresh perspectives, keeping our journey vibrant and engaging.

Apart from this, here are several steps that can be taken in order to be more perseverent towards your aims and objectives.

1. Know your “why”

When your energy aligns with what’s really meant for you, you will find no confusion and no compulsion. It’s like finally you have found your place of peace. It’s not guaranteed that your journey will be smooth even there, but you will enjoy the process, that’s for sure.

Understanding the significance and purpose behind your efforts can help you fuel consistent action.

2. Break it down

Break your goal into smaller and more manageable tasks. By focusing on incremental progress, you can maintain a sense of accomplishment and stay motivated. Celebrate every small win. That will make you more confident.

3. Seek inspiration

Surround yourself with positive influences related to your goal. Engage with books, stories, or individuals who have achieved similar goals or faced comparable challenges. Learn from their experiences. Be with the people who are good for your mental health.

4. Practice self-care

Prioritize self-care to maintain your energy. Get enough rest. Eat well. Engage in activities that rejuvenate and replenish your mental and emotional well-being.

5. Review and adjust

Regularly review your progress. Reassess your strategies, and make necessary adjustments. Stay attuned to any changes in circumstances or priorities that may require recalibrating your approach.

Are you a Starter or a Finisher?

We encounter two types of people in our day-to-day life. Starters (SACHIN) and finishers (DHONI). And the thing which leads from start to finish is what we call Continuity.

Starters are full of ideas and enthusiasm. They see opportunities where others see obstacles. They have a knack for identifying gaps and assembling the necessary resources to get things going.

Finishers, on the other hand, are meticulous and detail-oriented. They thrive on bringing tasks to completion. Imagine a colleague who oversees a complex project from beginning to end, ensuring that every detail is carefully managed. Finishers take responsibility and find satisfaction in achieving goals.

Most of us possess a blend of starter and finisher qualities, with a leaning towards one or the other. And so it becomes important to find the right balance. Understanding your inclinations can help you leverage your strengths and embrace your role more effectively.

CONCLUSION

Everybody can start, but not everybody can finish. That’s the reason why M.S. DHONI is considered the most special.

While starting may ignite the flame, it is the act of continuing that keeps it burning bright. It’s the challenges that we face on our journey that contribute more towards our growth and development.

We do feel stronger physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually when we know we hung in there. When we finish something that was difficult to do, despite all odds we feel good about ourselves. We tap into something deep inside ourselves.

Remember, it’s the commitment to continue that sets apart the achievers. So, stay focused, stay determined, and keep pushing forward on your path to reaching your goals.