“It is easier to act yourself into a better way of feeling than to feel yourself into a better way of action.” – O.H. Mowrer

I came across this quote while working my way through Getting Things Done by David Allen. It is incredibly sound advice and yet, much easier said than done. Some of my most productive days occurred when I resolved to stay off Facebook and act like an adult; filing taxes, scheduling doctor’s appointments, maintaining the discipline to actually write everyday like I promised myself that I would. It’s so much easier to keep up the productive momentum once the ball is rolling. 

The tricky part is figuring out how to initiate that motion. There are some weeks when I feel like I could climb the tallest mountains and touch the stars. Then, there are those times when everything seems like such a hassle and I hesitate to start anything because I’d hate to run out of time and not be able to finish. This is a completely useless mentality and one which I regularly fight to suppress. Of course things might not get done on time but if they’re never started, they won’t get done at all. 

I’m not sure there will ever come a day when I feel like I have mastered the art of getting things done. Each time I renew my resolve to stay focused and maintain a constant and steady flow of productivity it feels a bit like being released from rehab again. It is a fresh beginning, full of fantastic possibilities. I am cleansed and refreshed and once again ready to take on the world. Sometimes, the eventual trip to creative rehabilitation feels inevitable and struggling against it seems like a lost cause but I always find my feet again. Today marks yet another new start in which I renew my promises to myself.

I will…

• Go to bed on time.
• Read and write everyday.
• Limit screen time.
• Actually do the dishes as I use them.
• Exercise everyday, even if it’s only a 10 minute home workout.

These are just a few of my current personal goals but ones that I am constantly struggling with. It’s maddeningly easy to fall off the wagon and lose sight of your goals. Sometimes the best you can do is slap a smile on your face and go about your day as if you were in the mood to be productive. Fake it ‘til you make it and hold yourself accountable.