8 Tips on How to Get Started (even when you’re not sure where to begin)

Starting is often the hardest part. Whether it’s a new task, a fresh project, or the book you’ve always dreamed of writing, that first step can be surprisingly challenging. Ideas swirl, self-doubt creeps in, and suddenly you’re tidying a drawer instead of opening the document.

The good news? Getting started doesn’t require perfection, inspiration on demand, or endless motivation. It just needs the right conditions and a little kindness and understanding of yourself.

Here are some practical and gentle tips to help you get started.

1. Create a tidy (but personal) workspace

A clear workspace can do wonders for a busy mind. You don’t need an Instagram-worthy desk, but removing clutter helps reduce distraction and overwhelm.

That said, don’t strip away everything. Surround yourself with a few meaningful or inspiring items:

• a favourite mug,

• a postcard or photo,

• a plant or two, and/or

• a quote that motivates you.

These personal touches make the space feel inviting rather than sterile; a place you want to return to and one that inspires you.

2. Be fully awake before you begin

Trying to start something meaningful while half-asleep is a recipe for frustration.

If you can, build in a short transition before you sit down to work:

• a walk around the block,

• a stretch,

• a cup of tea or coffee, and/or

• a few minutes of fresh air.

Movement helps wake up both your body and your mind, making it easier to focus once you begin.

3. Choose a comfortable, dedicated workspace

Some people thrive when sitting at a desk with a supportive chair. Others do their best thinking in a comfy armchair with a notebook on their lap. There’s no ‘right’ setup, just what works for you.

If possible, choose:

• a space where you can sit comfortably for a while,

• good lighting, and/or

• a view that inspires you (a window, a garden, even the sky).

Using the same spot regularly can also train your brain to recognise it as work time.

4. Give yourself enough time

Starting something new in a rushed or interrupted window of time can make it feel harder than it needs to be. You don’t need to set aside hours; 20 or 30 minutes can be enough, but try to choose a block of time where you’re not constantly clock-watching.

Set a gentle boundary:

• silence notifications,

• close unnecessary tabs, and

• let others know you’re unavailable.

Protecting this time signals to yourself that the work matters.

5. Lower the bar (yes, really)

One of the biggest reasons people don’t start is because they’re aiming too high too soon.

You don’t need to:

• write the perfect opening chapter,

• map out the entire project, or

• know exactly where it’s going.

Your only job is to begin. Messy writing, rough notes, half-formed ideas; they all count. You can’t edit what doesn’t exist.

6. Break it into tiny steps

Big projects feel overwhelming because they are big. Instead of thinking, “I need to write a book” or “I need to plan this event”, try:

• “I’ll open a document”

• “I’ll write one paragraph”

• “I’ll make a list of ideas”

Small steps build momentum, and momentum builds confidence.

7. Let go of the pressure to be ‘productive’

Not every session needs to produce something tangible or impressive. Some days, getting started simply means thinking, planning, or jotting down rough ideas, and that still counts.

When you remove the pressure to achieve something, it becomes much easier to begin. Progress often shows up quietly: a clearer idea, a better question, or the confidence to return tomorrow.

Starting gently is still starting.

8. Allow yourself to start imperfectly

Starting doesn’t mean committing to a final version. It means permitting yourself to explore.

You’re allowed to:

• change your mind,

• rewrite, and

• pause and come back later.

Every word you write, even the ones you delete later, will bring you closer to where you want to be.

A final thought

That book, project, or task you’ve been thinking about? It doesn’t need more waiting.

Set up your space. Take a breath. Start small. The first step doesn’t have to be brave; it just has to happen.

And if you ever need support shaping, organising, editing, or bringing your words to life, I’m always here to help.

I hope this helps xx

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