Action Precede Motivation
What is it:
We often think we need to feel motivated before taking action. But psychology and real-world experience say the opposite is more often true:
Motivation is the result of action; not the cause.
Once you start, even in a small way, your brain begins to engage, your resistance drops, and your momentum builds. This is known as the activation energy principle; it takes the most effort to start, but far less to keep going.
This idea is backed by behavioral psychology and productivity science, including insights from James Clear (Atomic Habits), BJ Fogg (Tiny Habits), and the Zeigarnik Effect, which suggests that our brains seek to complete what we've started.
Why it matters today:
We live in a world that glorifies grind and inspiration. But most of our biggest goals; writing, starting a side project, working out, learning something new - don’t begin with fireworks.
They begin with resistance. Procrastination. Perfectionism. Doubt.
Action Precedes Motivation flips the script:
Stop waiting to feel ready. Start small, start messy, just start.
1. Can’t get yourself to work out?
Instead of: “I’m not in the mood to exercise.”
Try: “I’ll just change into workout clothes and walk for 5 minutes.”
Once you start, you’re more likely to keep going.
2. Procrastinating on a report or deck?
Instead of: “I’ll wait till I’m more focused.”
Try: “I’ll open the file and write just the first sentence.”
This lowers the barrier and signals your brain: "We're doing this."
3. Struggling to clean the house?
Instead of: “I’ll do it later.”
Try: “I’ll wash just one dish.”
Micro-starts often lead to full-on flow.
You don’t need to feel motivated to take action.
But taking action will help you feel motivated.
Start tiny. Start now. Let progress be your spark.
Prompts for application:
What is the smallest step I can take to move this forward?
How can I make starting so easy I can’t say no?
Not feeling up to the task? Can I commit to just five minutes?
Sources:
The Zeigarnik Effect: We’re more likely to finish things we’ve started, even if they’re incomplete (Zeigarnik, 1927).
BJ Fogg’s Behavior Model: Simpler actions with low resistance are easier to start and sustain - leading to greater long-term change.
James Clear: “Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you want to become.”
