When we reach a point where we know what needs to be done, there are twin temptations that can keep us from moving forward: Laziness and Fear.
Even though we know what the next step is, we may not be willing to put in the work it requires. It’s easier to maintain, to cruise, to stay where we’re at, than to invest the energy needed to move forward.
Or, we may be paralyzed by fear. We’re not lazy — we’re more than willing to work hard — but there’s a fear that holds us back. Perhaps it’s a fear that we don’t have what it takes, or of all the things that could go wrong.
Most of us wouldn’t want to admit that the root cause of not taking action is laziness or fear — no one wants to be known as lazy or a coward — and so we say we’re being cautious, or realistic, or patient. And although these can be great qualities, sometimes we can use them as a means of not dealing with the real issues beneath.
And as long as that happens — aa long as fear or laziness can keep us from moving forward — they ultimately keep us from getting to where we want to go. That is, unless we’re happy staying right where we are.