The Power of “Let’s Try”: Why Small Actions Beat Perfect Motivation
We’ve all been there: staring at a blank document, a cluttered room, or a daunting to-do list, waiting for the “right” motivation to strike. We tell ourselves, “I’ll start when I feel inspired” or “I need to be in the right mindset.” But here’s the truth—perfect motivation is a myth. What really moves the needle isn’t a grand burst of inspiration but a simple, quiet decision to say, “Let’s try.”
The Problem with Waiting for Perfect Motivation
Humans are wired to crave certainty. We want guarantees that our efforts will pay off, that we won’t fail, or that the process will feel effortless. But waiting for the “perfect” moment or emotion is like waiting for rain in a drought—it keeps us stuck. Psychologists call this “analysis paralysis,” where overthinking prevents action. The longer we wait, the heavier the mental load becomes, creating a cycle of procrastination and guilt.
Consider exercise. Many people delay starting a fitness routine because they don’t “feel motivated enough.” They imagine needing boundless energy, a flawless workout plan, or a gym membership. But research shows that motivation often follows action, not the other way around. The simple act of putting on sneakers or doing a single push-up can trigger momentum.
Why “Let’s Try” Works Better Than Perfection
The phrase “let’s try” is powerful because it lowers the stakes. It’s not about committing to a marathon; it’s about lacing up your shoes. It’s not about writing a bestselling novel; it’s about typing one sentence. This mindset shifts focus from outcomes to process, reducing pressure and making tasks feel manageable.
A study published in the Journal of Consumer Research found that people who embraced “small steps” were more likely to stick to goals than those fixated on big, sweeping changes. For example, participants who aimed to “eat slightly healthier” instead of “following a strict diet” were more consistent over time. Tiny efforts build confidence, creating a positive feedback loop that fuels further action.
The Science Behind Starting Small
Our brains love progress, even in microscopic doses. When we take action—no matter how minor—we activate the brain’s reward system. Dopamine, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter, is released, reinforcing the behavior and making us want to repeat it. This explains why something as simple as tidying your desk for two minutes can snowball into an hour of productive work.
Neuroscientist Andrew Huberman emphasizes the concept of “micro-actions” in habit formation. He argues that focusing on “tiny, repeatable behaviors” helps bypass the brain’s resistance to change. For instance, if you want to read more, start with one page a night. Over time, the brain associates reading with ease, not struggle.
How to Cultivate a “Let’s Try” Mindset
1. Embrace Imperfection
Accept that motivation will never be 100%. Instead of waiting for confidence, act despite doubt. Author Elizabeth Gilbert once wrote, “Done is better than good.” A messy first draft, a halfway-clean kitchen, or a 10-minute walk still counts as progress.
2. Use the 5-Minute Rule
Commit to a task for just five minutes. Often, starting is the hardest part, and once you begin, you’ll likely keep going. This works for everything from studying to creative projects.
3. Reframe Failure as Feedback
Fear of failure stops many people from trying. But what if you viewed missteps as data? If a strategy doesn’t work, it’s not a reflection of your worth—it’s just information to adjust your approach.
4. Celebrate Micro-Wins
Did you send that email you’ve been avoiding? Did you meditate for three minutes? Acknowledge these victories. Celebrating small successes trains your brain to associate effort with reward.
5. Lower the Bar
Author James Clear, in Atomic Habits, advises making habits “so easy you can’t say no.” Want to practice guitar? Commit to strumming one chord. Want to journal? Write one sentence. Ridiculously low standards remove resistance.
Real-Life Examples of “Let’s Try” in Action
– Sarah’s Story: After years of wanting to write a book, Sarah felt overwhelmed by the idea of 300 pages. Then she shifted her goal: “I’ll write one paragraph a day.” Some days she wrote more; some days she didn’t. But within a year, she had a completed manuscript.
– Mike’s Journey: Mike dreaded public speaking. Instead of waiting to feel brave, he started by speaking up in small team meetings. Each time, his anxiety lessened. Now he presents confidently at conferences.
The Ripple Effect of Tiny Actions
Small efforts compound over time. Writing 100 words a day becomes a book in a year. Saving $5 daily grows into an emergency fund. Consistency beats intensity because it’s sustainable. As author Darren Hardy says, “Small, smart choices + consistency + time = radical difference.”
Conclusion: Motivation Is a Result, Not a Requirement
Waiting for perfect motivation is like waiting to see the entire staircase before taking the first step. You don’t need to feel ready—you just need to begin. The next time you’re stuck, quiet the inner critic demanding certainty, and replace it with a gentle nudge: “Let’s try.” You might surprise yourself with how far that tiny spark can take you.
Remember, progress isn’t about giant leaps. It’s about showing up, even when it’s uncomfortable, and trusting that small steps add up. After all, the greatest achievements in life often start with a single, imperfect “let’s try.”
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