Let’s be honest – most of us are not at our most productive all the time. Sometimes, there’s no amount of pep talks or motivation to get me going, especially when I’m exhausted or overwhelmed. Whether I need a fresh start or just a little boost to get the day going, I never underestimate the power of momentum.

Momentum is defined as “strength or force gained by motion or by a series of events.” More commonly put it is “getting the ball rolling.” The initial effort is usually the most strenuous and the energy builds naturally from there. 

Here’s how I build momentum:

1. Clear my mind. I resumed this practice recently after listening to The Mattie James Podcast about productivity. The brain dump is absolutely vital, especially when my inaction is due to overwhelm. I take the time to write down everything in my head. From there, I make an action plan and get to work.

   Bonus: Sometimes I realize I’ve worked out an entire solution in my head and the only thing left is to send an email or make a phone call, which leads to the next phase…
2. Find a baby step. Find something small to complete to build momentum. As previously mentioned, it can be as small as a making a phone call or sending an email. Or at work, I usually start the day with tasks that take little effort just to get the ball rolling. I then tackle my more substantial workload in the afternoon when my brain is warmed up.
   
   
3. Leave a trail. Nothing kills momentum like sitting down to a blank page. One way I leave a trail is by ending with the beginning in mind. For example, at the end of the work day, I will often start a case I want to focus on the next day. I will review the case notes and write out an action plan for the next day. In essence, I use my high energy, productive hours to plan for my less optimal working hours.
   
   The other way I build momentum in my tasks is going back to my brain dump. Something in my notes is probably the trail to some creative idea or something I need to do.