Starting is the hardest part: How coaching can help you overcome

We’ve all heard the phrase, "The hardest part is getting started." Whether it’s launching a new business, committing to a workout plan, or starting a long-awaited project, that first step often feels like an enormous obstacle. You might have the knowledge, resources, and motivation to succeed, but something holds you back. The beginning is where most people stall – it’s intimidating, overwhelming, and can even feel paralysing. Fortunately, you don’t have to go it alone. Coaching offers the guidance, structure, and accountability needed to help you not just get started, but to follow through and succeed.

Why is starting so difficult?

There are several reasons why the beginning can feel so difficult:

1. Fear of the unknown

When you start something new, you step into unfamiliar territory. That uncertainty can trigger anxiety and doubt, with thoughts like, “What if I fail?” or “What if I’m not good enough?” It’s no wonder so many people get stuck before they even begin.

2. Perfectionism

The desire to get everything perfect from the outset can be a massive stumbling block. If you’re waiting for the “perfect” time or until you feel perfectly prepared, you might never start. This mindset can leave you spinning in circles instead of taking action.

3. Feeling overwhelmed

Often, new goals or projects come with a lengthy to-do list. When you’re faced with too many tasks at once, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. You don’t know where to start, so you end up procrastinating.

4. Lack of direction

Even if you’re excited about your goal, not knowing where or how to begin can be frustrating. Without a clear plan or path, starting feels like standing at a crossroads with no idea which direction to take.

5. Inertia

There’s an old principle in physics that objects at rest tend to stay at rest, and people are no different. Once we’ve been still for a while – whether physically or mentally – it’s hard to get moving again. But the flip side is also true: once you do get started, it’s much easier to keep going.

How coaching can help you start

Here’s how working with a coach can make starting easier and more effective.

1. Accountability

One of the biggest benefits of having a coach is accountability. When someone else is keeping track of your progress, it’s a lot harder to avoid action. A coach helps hold you accountable to your goals, pushing you to move beyond thinking and dreaming and into doing. That expectation from someone else can be the extra motivation you need to take that first step.

2. Breaking down the big picture

Big goals can feel overwhelming, and when you’re overwhelmed, it’s hard to know where to begin. A coach helps break down the big picture into smaller, manageable tasks, making it easier to start and stay on track. Rather than focusing on the entire mountain you have to climb, a coach gets you to focus on the next step.

3. Providing clarity

Sometimes, we hesitate to start because we’re not entirely sure what we want or how to go after it. A coach helps you dig deeper into your motivations, clarify your goals, and map out a plan to reach them. That clarity makes it easier to take action because you know exactly where you’re headed and what’s important.

4. Overcoming mental blocks

Mental roadblocks like fear of failure, perfectionism, or self-doubt often prevent people from starting. Coaches are great at identifying these issues and helping you work through them. They’ll help you reframe negative thoughts, build confidence, and remind you that progress is more important than perfection. With their support, you can push past the things that have been holding you back.

5. Support and encouragement

Starting something new can be an emotional rollercoaster. You’ll probably feel excited, but you’ll also likely face moments of frustration and self-doubt. A coach provides not only practical guidance but also emotional support. They’re there to remind you of your strengths, help you navigate challenges, and keep you moving forward when things get tough.

6. Creating sustainable habits

Getting started is important, but what really matters is maintaining momentum. A coach helps you establish habits that keep you moving forward. By focusing on small, consistent actions, you’ll build a routine that leads to long-term success rather than just short bursts of progress.

If you really do want to take action towards your goal, coaching may be your best bet.