While studying Engineering at McGill University, I learned about the law of friction. Loosely defined, this law says it takes a larger force to initially move a stationary object than it does to keep the object moving once in motion.
This is because in order to move a stationary object, you need to apply sufficient force to overcome the static friction of the object. Once the object is in motion though, you only need to apply sufficient force to overcome the kinetic friction. And static friction > kinetic friction.
This principle can be applied to more than just objects. With everyday events, it’s usually harder to start something than it is to sustain it.
So if you’re facing a particular problem and don’t know where to start, just start. Take a step forward, even if it’s in the wrong direction. You can always change direction once you’ve started moving forward.
For example, want to start a podcast? Then just start! Don’t subject yourself to analysis paralysis like deep research on which is the best podcast microphone.
Want to learn how to use AI? Pick any AI and start prompting. Don’t research which AI writes the best code (it’s Claude BTW)
The takeaway
The hardest part of any change is the first step. So take the first step early and fast, so you can course correct and make some real progress.