Setting Yourself Up to Get Started
Photo by Getty Images on Unsplash.
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PROJECT OF THE WEEK
I set aside a full day to do my taxes.
The plan was simple: no clients, no meetings, just a quiet day to focus and get it done.
But, as we all know, life has a way of adjusting the plan.
The night before, I had to move a client to 8:15 p.m. Anyone who knows me knows I am not a night owl. Then, in the middle of the night, my kiddo woke up with a nightmare. By the time the bus pulled away the next morning, I was not exactly feeling rested or focused. I was exhausted.
But this was the day I had set aside to do my taxes.
I knew I needed a little reset before diving in, so I decided to take a short nap. The problem? I also know myself well enough to worry that I might wake up and start making excuses about why I should do the taxes later.
Getting Started
So I used a strategy I often suggest to my students and clients.
Before lying down, I set myself up to get started.
I opened my computer. I took out all my tax documents. I opened my spreadsheet and pulled up TurboTax. Everything I needed was right there waiting for me.
Then I set an alarm and took a quick nap.
When I woke up, I felt more refreshed, and there was no barrier to getting started. My computer was open, the paperwork was out, and the next step was obvious. So I jumped right in.
And it turned out to be a really productive day.
Sometimes the hardest part of any task is simply getting started. One small way to make that easier is to remove the friction ahead of time.
Lay out the materials. Open the document. Put the book on the table. Set up the space.
That way, when it's time to begin, you can just begin.
I’m curious, have you ever used this strategy to help yourself get started?
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.