How "Just Do It" Can Break the Cycle of Procrastination

Just Do It

Hands up who’s never procrastinated?

Thought so.

We’ve all done it at sometime: starting that proposal, replying to an email that’s been in your inbox for days, or working on that great idea you’ve been hatching for months.

Whatever it may be, we’ve all been there: stuck in frozen mode, waiting for the perfect moment.

But what if the solution was just three simple words?

Just do it.

Yes, it’s Nike’s slogan—and there’s a reason they’ve been using it for the past 37 years.

It works at breaking the cycle of “sitting on the sidelines” of life.

Here’s why:

1. It Ends the Mental Spiral

No more:

“What if it’s not good enough?”

“I’m not ready yet.”

“I’ll start later.”

Just do it stops all of that. It replaces overthinking with action. And action creates momentum.

2. It’s Universally Applicable

I’ve found that from work projects to personal goals, this mantra works anywhere. You don’t need a detailed plan to start—you just need to start.

So do a count down: 5-4-3-2-1…

3. Pair It With: “What’s the Worst That Can Happen?”

This combo is powerful.

You speak up in a meeting? Maybe it’s awkward. Maybe you create change.

You launch that pet project? Maybe it fails. Maybe you start something.

You take a risk? Maybe you stumble. But you learn and grow.

Most procrastination is fear dressed up as caution; asking, “what’s the worst that can happen?” helps you realise most outcomes are survivable—and often valuable.

Change the Narrative

Worried about taking the leap? 
Now ask: What’s the worst that can happen if I don’t?

Missed opportunity

Unused potential

Regret

That’s the real danger. Not failing—but never trying.

Here’s a Final Thought

You don’t need perfect timing, perfect conditions, or perfect confidence.

You just need to move.

Next time you hesitate, try this:

“Just do it. What’s the worst that can happen?”

Do your countdown, and then

Start!

Previous
Previous

True Confidence: Embracing the Knowledge of Who You Are

Next
Next

The Influence of Language: Why ‘Guys’ isn’t Just a Word