As someone who loves brainstorming, creating vision boards, and exploring the best ways to serve my clients, I understand the challenge of turning plans into action. With big goals—like launching The Strength in Her Stride Show on YouTube Live, pitching myself to media outlets, and hosting workshops to help professional women create a career and life they love—I spend a lot of time refining ideas and getting excited about possibilities. I even enjoy collaborating with ChatGPT to explore new approaches and strategies. But when it comes to making these visions a reality, taking that first step can sometimes feel daunting.
If you’re like me, you might find that planning is exciting, but executing can be a challenge.
Here’s what I’m learning about shifting from planning to doing. Maybe these steps can help you, too.
1. Start with Micro-Actions
One of the things that can keep me from taking action is how large and complex my goals can feel. Instead, I’m working on breaking down each goal into small, easy steps that take 10-15 minutes or less. For example, rather than planning an entire episode of my show at once, I focus on “drafting one email to a potential guest” or “outlining three talking points.” These small steps make the task feel less overwhelming and help me build momentum.
2. Set a ‘Doing, Not Planning’ Rule
It’s so easy for me to keep brainstorming. I’ll think of new ways to refine my workshops or find better approaches to reach my audience. To avoid staying in this endless loop of planning, I’ve established a rule for myself: every time I catch myself wanting to add something new, I commit to doing one small action instead. If a new idea pops into my head, I jot it down in a separate notebook and return to my action list. This keeps me moving forward rather than getting stuck in the comfort zone of planning.
3. Set Up Action Triggers
One thing that helps me is pairing tasks with daily routines. For instance, as I shift my social media focus to LinkedIn, I remind myself to draft LinkedIn posts during my morning coffee. By attaching new tasks to something I already do, it’s easier to build consistency and get them done. Finding natural times in your day to work on specific goals can make taking action feel less forced and more like a natural part of your routine.
4. Limit Planning Time Each Week
While I enjoy planning, I’ve found that too much of it can keep me from actually moving forward. Now, I set aside a specific time each week for brainstorming—like one hour on Monday morning to map out key actions for the week. Once that time is up, I focus entirely on implementing those tasks. Setting a limit on planning time creates urgency and keeps me from using “more planning” as an excuse not to get started.
5. Use Accountability Tools
I’ve found that accountability can be a powerful motivator. Sharing my goals with an accountability partner helps me stay committed. Sometimes, knowing that someone else is keeping track of my progress is enough to push me to complete tasks. If you’re working on a big goal, try sharing your weekly action steps with someone you trust, or use an accountability tool to keep yourself on track.
6. Embrace Imperfection
Like many people, I can get caught up waiting for a “perfect” plan before I start. But I’ve learned that action doesn’t require perfection. Many successful projects evolve through trial and error, so I remind myself that my first attempt doesn’t have to be flawless. When I take small steps, I naturally refine and improve as I go. Making progress, even if it’s imperfect, is better than staying stuck.
7. Reward Yourself for Taking Action
Celebrating small wins helps reinforce positive action-taking behavior. I’m learning to recognize every task I complete, no matter how small, as a step forward. After completing an action, I’ll give myself a mini-reward—taking a break, having a favorite snack, or simply checking it off my list with a bit of pride. The brain loves rewards, and associating action with a positive feeling keeps motivation high.
In Summary
Moving from planning to action is a challenge, especially if you’re a natural brainstormer like me. But by focusing on micro-actions, creating action triggers, and allowing yourself to make imperfect progress, you’ll build the habit of doing. Limit your planning time, lean on accountability, and celebrate your progress as you go. With each small step, you’ll begin to see your ideas take shape in the real world—and that’s where the magic truly happens.
Whether your goals are about growing as a leader, getting featured in the media, or launching a new program at work, remember that taking action is the key to turning your visions into reality.
Leave a comment if you'd be interested in a workshop guiding you through goal setting before the start of the new year.
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