Why are you not taking action? How coaching can help change that!

Many of us face situations where we know exactly what must be done – whether it’s starting a healthy habit, making a career move, or improving relationships – yet we feel stuck. Have you ever found yourself aware of what you need to do but still unable to take that first step?

We often procrastinate, avoid, or make excuses, even when we recognise the benefits of taking action. Why does this happen? And, more importantly, how can therapy and coaching help break these barriers?

Why does this occur?

It’s frustrating when you are aware of your goals, but something seems to hold you back from pursuing them. This feeling of being stuck can stem from various barriers, such as fear of failure, lack of confidence, or simply feeling overwhelmed.

Many reasons exist for why individuals struggle with taking action, even when they recognise what they should do. Some of the most common obstacles include:

• Fear of failure or perfectionism: The pressure to perform perfectly can lead to avoidance. The fear of making mistakes often paralyses individuals into inaction.
• Overwhelm and stress: When tasks appear too large or complicated, the thought of starting can become overwhelming. This can result in procrastination and avoidance.
• Self-doubt and lack of confidence: A lack of belief in one's abilities can hinder progress. This absence of self-trust can stem from past experiences or the impact of negative self-talk.
• Executive functioning challenges: For people with ADHD or autism, issues related to executive functioning – such as planning, prioritising, and time management – can complicate breaking tasks into manageable steps and following through.
• Lack of motivation or clarity: Sometimes, the connection between the goal and the reason behind it is unclear. Without a compelling reason to act, it becomes easy to remain stuck.

The good news is you don't have to face these challenges alone; coaching can help you overcome these barriers and reach your full potential.

How coaching can help overcome these barriers

Coaching provides a safe space to explore and address the underlying causes of inaction. Here are some ways it can help:

1. Personalised action plans with accountability

Creating a structured action plan can reduce feelings of being overwhelmed and increase confidence. Develop an action plan tailored to your unique strengths and challenges; it could reduce overwhelm and boost your confidence in your ability to achieve by breaking tasks into manageable steps. Setting realistic goals, tracking progress, and adjusting plans as needed enhance the chances of success and build momentum over time.

 2. Building self-confidence and reducing self-doubt

Boosting self-esteem is a key factor in overcoming inactivity. Challenging negative thinking patterns that fuel self-doubt can empower individuals to believe in their abilities. Strategies that encourage self-compassion and confidence enable a more proactive and resilient mindset, making it easier to take decisive steps toward achieving goals. 

3. Addressing executive functioning challenges

Executive function problems can be significant obstacles to action for neurodivergent people. Coaching emphasises techniques meant to simplify task prioritisation, organisation, and planning. All customised to your individual requirements and mental approach, such as learning time management, task chunking, and focus preservation can simplify daily responsibilities and long-term goals. This helps you to overcome the obstacles produced by executive functioning issues, enabling you to divide activities and advance.

4. Understanding and managing stress

Stress and burnout are often rooted in inaction. Identifying sources of stress and implementing effective management techniques can help create a more balanced and productive environment. Mindfulness practices, setting boundaries, and establishing structured routines can support individuals in reducing stress and regaining motivation to take action. 

5. Motivation and clarity

Low motivation makes one feel trapped quite naturally and presents a challenge to move forward. Gaining clarity on personal objectives and exploring the deeper reasons behind them can reignite motivation and provide the necessary drive to take action. Knowing this link to your objectives brings back motivation and gives the power required to act.

Why implement these strategies?

There are many therapists and coaches out there, but strategies tailored to individual needs tend to be the most effective. A few key factors contribute to success:

1. Specialised expertise in neurodivergence

Recognising the unique challenges and strengths associated with ADHD, autism, and other neurodivergent traits allows for the development of customised strategies that align with an individual's cognitive and emotional needs, creating an approach that suits you rather than a one-size-fits-all method.

2. Multicultural and inclusive approach

Acknowledging diverse experiences and backgrounds ensures that strategies are adaptable and relevant across different cultural and personal contexts. 

3. Holistic focus on personal and professional growth

Whether you’re aiming to advance in your career development or enhance your personal life with psychological well-being. This dual focus helps you grow in all aspects of your life, ensuring you feel empowered both professionally and personally. 

4. Empathy and understanding

A supportive and understanding approach helps individuals feel heard and validated, making it easier to explore and address the obstacles that prevent progress.

Taking action can often feel like the most challenging aspect of any journey. However, with the right strategies and support, it is possible to overcome the obstacles that stand in the way.

By developing a personalised approach to goal-setting, confidence-building, stress management, and motivation, individuals can break through barriers and achieve meaningful progress.

Recognising and addressing these challenges is the first step toward creating a life that aligns with one's true potential and aspirations.