TBSN #23 - Why can't we apply what we think?
A little knowledge that acts is worth infinitely more than much knowledge that is idle. ~Kahlil Gibran
We all make plans but most of them remain incomplete.
Like, you will be studying very hard for the coming exam but you don’t, you plan to be productive in the coming new year but it never happens; why?
Have you ever read a book or a blog post and felt a sense of clarity—like you knew exactly what you needed to do?
Deep down we all know what is it that we need to do. We know what will make us happier, what will make us healthier, what will help us grow.
And, despite knowing all of that, we just don’t act on it.
Why?
Here’re some of the reasons why we can’t apply what we think:
Perfectionism
Get started with what you know and master it on the way. Don’t try to be a perfectionist even before trying it out.
There is no end to seeking perfection.
If you wait for yourself to be “perfect” before starting, it might take the entire lifetime.
Momentum-break
Habits are important.
But, there will be times when you’ll be forced to break your habit and lose your momentum. And, if you’re very strict about your routine, it will be very difficult for you to resume the game.
Losing momentum doesn’t represent failure.
Relax and restart.
Fear
Before starting anything, you think of 100s of negatives — what if it fails, what if people don’t like it and all. After that, you get exhausted and go back to not-doing-anything-state.
Everyone has fear.
Conquer your fears before these grow into regrets for a lifetime.
Comparison
Rather than focusing on what you don’t know, try to focus on what you know and create the best out of it.
Comparing yourself to others and not doing anything because you’re not up to their levels is just another fear of people not liking you.
Validation
Feedback ≠ Validation.
Seeking feedback or constructive criticism will make you grow, but seeking validation will not.
You don’t need to wait for everyone to say “yes” before starting. Just do it.
—
If you’re unsure about something, try to create a list of “why it’ll work” and “why it won’t”; analyze everything thoroughly and then proceed.
I am sure you will find enough reasons to “start”.
That’s it.
Talk soon,
Deepak K
from AspiringYouths