If You’re Waiting for the “Right Time” to Start — This is for YOU! (Stop Letting Perfection Hold You Back!)
In this episode of On Purpose, Jay Shetty addresses the common challenge of waiting for the "right time" to start projects or make changes. He explores the relationship between action and motivation, explaining how taking action often generates motivation rather than the other way around. Shetty introduces the Zeigarnik effect, which describes how unfinished tasks create mental tension that drives us toward completion.
The episode covers practical strategies for overcoming procrastination and feelings of being stuck. Shetty explains how breaking down tasks into smaller parts and engaging in physical activities can improve problem-solving abilities and reduce mental clutter. He discusses research from Harvard Medical School about how simple activities like walking can activate the brain's default mode network, and offers techniques for building momentum through consistent, incremental actions rather than waiting for perfect conditions.
This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Jul 25, 2025 episode of the On Purpose with Jay Shetty
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Overcoming Procrastination and Taking Action, Even Without Motivation
Jay Shetty shares insights on breaking through procrastination barriers and taking action, regardless of motivation levels. He explains that action often precedes motivation, pointing to the Zeigarnik effect - a psychological phenomenon where unfinished tasks create mental tension that drives completion. Rather than waiting for perfect conditions, Shetty encourages starting tasks imperfectly and building momentum through consistent effort.
Mindset Shifts to Reframe Feeling Stuck or Plateaued
Shetty challenges the myth of waiting for the "right time," emphasizing that confidence and readiness come from taking action rather than extensive planning. He suggests viewing periods of feeling "stuck" as necessary preparation phases for breakthroughs, supported by neuroscience showing that frustration often precedes significant growth. During these times, Shetty recommends identifying specific skills or mindsets to develop rather than viewing the situation as mere stagnation.
Getting Unstuck: Physical Activities and Task Breakdown Strategies
Research shows that quick wins and small, incremental actions are more effective than focusing on larger, abstract goals. Shetty advocates breaking down tasks into manageable chunks, suggesting techniques like setting a five-minute timer to start without the pressure of completion. According to Harvard Medical School studies from 2015, engaging in repetitive physical activities like walking or cleaning can activate the brain's default mode network, improving problem-solving abilities and reducing mental clutter. Shetty recommends using physical movement as a tool to reset when feeling mentally stuck, helping to restore productivity and clarity.
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Counterarguments
- While action can precede motivation, some individuals may require a baseline level of motivation to initiate any action, challenging the idea that action always comes first.
- Starting tasks imperfectly might not be suitable for all types of work, especially where precision and accuracy are critical from the outset.
- While taking action can build confidence, some individuals may benefit from a certain degree of planning to feel prepared and reduce anxiety.
- The concept of feeling "stuck" as a preparation phase may not resonate with everyone, and some may require external assistance or change to move forward.
- Neuroscience does suggest frustration can precede growth, but this is not a universal experience, and continuous frustration without resolution can be detrimental.
- Identifying specific skills or mindsets to develop during stagnant periods assumes that individuals have the insight or resources to do so, which may not always be the case.
- Quick wins and small actions can be effective, but some goals require sustained, long-term efforts that cannot be broken down into smaller tasks.
- The five-minute timer technique may not work for tasks that require deep work and prolonged concentration to enter a state of flow.
- Physical activities can aid problem-solving, but this may not be effective for everyone, and some may find other methods like meditation or structured brainstorming more beneficial.
- Using physical movement as a reset tool assumes that one has the physical ability and space to do so, which might not be accessible to everyone.
Actionables
- You can create a "motivation playlist" with songs that energize you and play it when starting a new task to initiate action. Music can stimulate the brain and create an environment conducive to taking the first step, especially when you're not feeling motivated. For example, if you're procrastinating on writing a report, as soon as you play your "motivation playlist," you start with the first sentence, letting the rhythm guide you into a productive flow.
- Develop a habit of "intentional imperfection" by deliberately leaving a small, non-critical part of your work imperfect when you start. This could mean, for instance, writing a draft email without worrying about typos or grammar. The goal is to lower the barrier to entry for tasks and to psychologically condition yourself to be comfortable with imperfection, which can lead to increased productivity and creativity.
- Turn your daily walks into "problem-solving sessions" by dedicating the time to think about specific challenges you're facing. Before you start walking, choose a particular problem you're stuck on. As you walk, let your mind wander around the issue without forcing a solution. The combination of physical activity and a change of scenery can lead to unexpected insights and breakthroughs. For example, if you're struggling with a creative block, a walk might lead to a new angle or idea that you hadn't considered while sitting at your desk.
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Overcoming Procrastination and Taking Action, Even Without Motivation
Procrastination can be a significant barrier to achievement, but Jay Shetty offers advice on how to overcome it and take action, even when motivation is lacking.
Build Momentum Through Small, Imperfect Starts; Don't Wait For Motivation
Action Fuels Motivation: The Zeigarnik Effect Shows Starting a Task Triggers Completion Engagement
Shetty emphasizes that action often precedes motivation. He explains that beginning a task can create a psychological phenomenon known as the Zeigarnik effect, where the brain tends to remember unfinished tasks more than completed ones. This creates mental tension and a compelling drive to finish what has been started, even if the beginning was less than perfect.
Embrace Imperfection; Consistency Builds Confidence and Progress
Shetty encourages embracing imperfection and starting anyway. He advises not aiming to finish the whole task in one go but inviting listeners to start badly, briefly, or messily. Following this approach can lead to the mind wanting to finish the task. He also notes that consistent effort can outshine talent when the talented lack commitment.
Stop Overthinking By Engaging In Activity
Repetitive Actions Activate the Brain's Default Mode Network, Improving Problem-Solving and Calming Mental Clutter
Jay Shetty suggests that one way to break mental loops of overthinking is to engage in action. By beginning something, even the smallest task, momentum builds, which can help to achieve mental clarity.
Move the Mind to Free the Bo ...
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Overcoming Procrastination and Taking Action, Even Without Motivation
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Clarifications
- The Zeigarnik effect is a psychological phenomenon where people remember incomplete or interrupted tasks better than completed ones. It suggests that unfinished tasks create mental tension, leading to a stronger memory of them. This effect can drive individuals to prioritize completing tasks that have been started over those that have not been initiated.
- The Default Mode Network (DMN) is a brain network that is active when the mind is at rest or engaged in internal thoughts like daydreaming, self-reflection, and planning. It consists of specific brain regions like the medial prefrontal cortex and the posterior cingulate cortex. The DMN plays a role in constructing a sense of self and is involved in various cognitive functions beyond just idle thoughts. Disruptions in the DMN have been linked to conditions like Alzheimer's disease and autism spectrum disorder.
- Mental loops of overthinking are repetitive patterns of excessive and often unproduct ...
Counterarguments
- While the Zeigarnik effect can encourage task completion, it can also lead to increased anxiety and stress for some individuals, particularly if they have too many tasks started and feel overwhelmed.
- Embracing imperfection is valuable, but without a certain level of quality control, it can lead to subpar outcomes or the reinforcement of bad habits.
- Consistent effort is important, but talent can sometimes be a critical factor in success, especially in fields that require innate abilities or high levels of skill.
- Engaging in activity to break mental loops of overthinking can be effective, but for some individuals, this might only serve as a temporary distraction and not address underlying issues causing the overthinking.
- Starting small tasks is a good strategy for building momentum, but without a clear plan or goal, these small starts may not lead to meaningful progress.
- The advice to translate inertia into momentum by starting with simple tasks assumes that the individual has the capacity to start, which may not be the ca ...
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Mindset Shifts to Reframe Feeling Stuck or Plateaued
Jay Shetty emphasizes that taking action is critical to progress and that waiting for the "right time" is a myth that can lead to stagnation.
"Right Time" Is a Myth - Action and Experience Trump Perfect Timing or Preparation
Confidence Comes From Action, Not Just Planning
Shetty dispels the myth of the "right time" by asserting that certainty and readiness are outcomes of action rather than precursors. He advises listeners to stop waiting for motivation or a perfect moment and stresses the importance of immediate action. Shetty suggests that starting now, rather than later, is vital for building momentum.
Start now, Not Later
By underlining the consequences of waiting to feel ready or motivated, Shetty pushes for action as the means to develop confidence. He states that individuals who seem ahead simply started sooner, and by taking the first step immediately, people can begin their journey towards their goals rather than regret inaction. Preparedness, he asserts, grows from the experience of doing.
Reframe Stagnation As Growth Opportunities
"Stuck" as a Necessary Pre-breakthrough Stabilization Period
Shetty encourages listeners to view periods when they feel "stuck" as necessary phases that indicate preparation for a breakthrough rather than a lack of progress. Neuroscience shows that frustration often preced ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
Mindset Shifts to Reframe Feeling Stuck or Plateaued
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- While taking action is important, sometimes careful planning and timing can lead to better outcomes than hasty action.
- The concept of the "right time" may not be a complete myth; there are instances where timing can be crucial, such as market conditions for business or personal readiness for life changes.
- Confidence can also come from thorough planning and knowledge, not just from taking action.
- Certainty and readiness can sometimes be a result of careful consideration and risk assessment, not just action.
- Immediate action without proper direction can sometimes lead to wasted effort or resources.
- Starting sooner is not always better if it means starting unprepared or without the necessary resources.
- Preparedness can also be achieved through study, mentorship, and observation, not just through personal experience.
- Feeling "stuck" might sometimes indicate a need for a change in approach or strategy, not just a pre-breakthrough phase.
- Frustration can sometimes be a sign that a chosen path is not working, and significant growth might require a different ...
Actionables
- You can set a "5-Minute Action Rule" where you commit to spending just five minutes on a task you've been postponing. This helps overcome the inertia of waiting for the right time by making the task seem less daunting. For example, if you've been meaning to start exercising, commit to just five minutes of stretching or a quick walk. Often, starting is the hardest part, and once you've begun, you're likely to continue beyond the initial five minutes.
- Create a "Skill Swap" with a friend or colleague where you teach each other a skill you're proficient in. This encourages immediate action in learning new skills and helps build confidence through teaching. If you're good at writing and your friend is an excellent public speaker, you can help each other grow in these areas, providing practical experience and immediate feedback.
- Develop a "Progress Jou ...
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Getting Unstuck: Physical Activities and Task Breakdown Strategies
In a world of increasingly complex tasks, it's essential to find strategies to overcome moments of stagnation. Start small enough that you can't make excuses and engage in physical activities to break mental loops and create energy.
Shrink Vision, Save the Dream: Take Small Steps
Research shows that taking small, incremental actions are more effective than focusing on larger, more abstract goals.
Research: Quick Wins Boost Persistence More Than Huge Goals
Researchers have found that people are more likely to continue with their efforts when they experience quick, early wins, according to studies on goal gradients. By breaking down goals into manageable chunks, these small victories provide the brain with evidence of progress, thus encouraging persistence over an overwhelming sense of having a huge goal to accomplish.
Break Down Goals Into Simple, Immediate Actions
Jay Shetty advocates setting a timer for just five minutes and commencing a task without the intention of finishing it. These simple, immediate actions help to build momentum and offer quick wins that boost persistence. Instead of focusing on an overarching purpose, concentrate on completing one task that incrementally moves you closer to your goals. Shetty underscores the importance of shrinking the goal to manageable actions to alleviate the pressure of trying to achieve big things all at once.
Use Physical Activities to Interrupt Mental Loops and Create Energy
Physical movement can reset a stuck mindset, creating positive shifts in one's energy and focus.
Repetitive Tasks Can Activate Problem-Solving Abilities and Calm Mental Clutter
Harvard Medic ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
Getting Unstuck: Physical Activities and Task Breakdown Strategies
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- While small steps can be effective, some individuals or tasks may benefit from a more holistic or visionary approach that keeps the end goal in sight.
- Quick wins may not always be the most sustainable form of motivation for everyone; some people may find more motivation in working towards a significant, meaningful goal.
- Breaking down goals into smaller tasks can sometimes lead to a loss of sight of the bigger picture or the original purpose of the goal.
- Setting a timer and starting a task without the intention of finishing it might not be suitable for tasks that require deep work or prolonged concentration.
- Focusing solely on one task at a time may not be the most efficient approach for multitaskers or roles that require keeping multiple projects moving forward simultaneously.
- Physical movement as a reset might not be applicable or effective for everyone, especially those with physical limitations or in environments where movement is restricted.
- Repetitive physical tasks might not activate problem-solving abilities for all individ ...
Actionables
- Create a "5-Minute Leap" jar filled with small tasks written on slips of paper to tackle when feeling stuck. When you're unsure where to start, draw a task and set a timer for five minutes to work on it. This could include organizing a drawer, writing an email, or sketching a design. The randomness adds an element of surprise and the time limit reduces pressure, making it easier to get into action.
- Use a "Progress Puzzle" approach by visualizing your goal as a jigsaw puzzle. Each small task you complete is a piece of the puzzle. Create a physical representation using an actual puzzle or a poster where you add a sticker or draw a piece each time you complete a task. This visual aid serves as a constant reminder of your incremental progress and keeps you motivated.
- Integrate "Dynamic Breaks" into your routine by ...
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