Procrastination - Just do the thing....

Why Eating the Frog Fuels Startup Success

At a time in the year when we are full of resolutions and good intentions it is important to understand the behavioural science behind motivation.

Motivation is fickle and can wane, one of the most effective ways in which you can counter waning motivation is to foster consistent habits. If you can get into the habit of doing the thing you least want to do first - every morning, then guess what you are more likely to maintain your motivation. 

The easiest and most satisfying part of the new year process is doing the list, setting the intentions however the real work is in the execution - Doing the thing!

I have had to remind myself of this theory at many stages in my career, it was an early lesson taught to me by my uncle more than 20 years ago, however being told the theory and then putting it into action takes conviction - so I implore you to not just read this and agree with it but to act on it.

Let's face it, founders are not averse to risk. Launching a venture demands leaping headfirst into the unknown, embracing uncertainty with open arms. But amidst the whirlwind of ideation, funding rounds, and market pivots, a sneaky villain often lurks: procrastination.

Mark Twain famously quipped, "If the first thing you do each morning is to eat a live frog, you can go through the day knowing the worst is past you." In founder speak, the "frog" represents that one dreaded task, the one that sends shivers down your spine and whispers excuses in your ear.

It's the investor call you keep rescheduling, the crucial pivot you delay, the looming legal paperwork threatening.

Why, then, do we let these frogs fester? Simple: they're uncomfortable, messy, and frankly, unappetising.

But here's the truth, founders: eating the frog isn't a culinary feat, it's a strategic superpower. By tackling your most daunting task first thing, you unlock a cascade of benefits:

• Clarity and Focus: Facing your "frog" early clears the mental cobwebs, freeing up space for strategic thinking and creative problem-solving. With the biggest hurdle crossed, the rest of your day unfolds with newfound purpose.
• Momentum and Confidence: Conquering your dread ignites a spark of accomplishment that ripples through your day. Each completed task adds fuel to the fire, propelling you forward with a confidence that inspires your team and attracts opportunities. It is the action that creates the motivation and makes you feel good.

• Proactive Leadership: Ignoring the frog sends a subtle message: the buck doesn't stop here. By prioritising the toughest challenge, you demonstrate proactive leadership, setting the tone for a team that tackles obstacles head-on.

So, founders, this is your call to action: identify your frog, schedule its demise, and savor the sweet taste of accomplishment.

Remember, the mountain's summit awaits, and the view from there is far more rewarding than any sugarcoated excuse.

Ready to share your own frog-eating triumphs? Let's discuss in the comments below!

Additional Tips:

• Break it down: Don't overwhelm yourself with the whole frog. Chunk it into bite-sized tasks, making it feel less daunting.
• Reward yourself: Celebrate each conquered challenge. A victory dance, a coffee break, or a mini-splurge can keep you motivated.
• Share the burden: Don't be afraid to delegate or seek help. Sometimes, a shared tackle makes the frog disappear faster.
• Embrace the power of "no": Saying "no" to distractions and less-critical tasks frees up space for your frog feast.

Remember, it's not about being fearless, it's about facing your fears with purpose and strategy.