To live an energized life, it's important to know what we want and the reason it's important to us. But at some point we have to start taking action, which can be challenging since we all lead such busy lives. Rather than focus on the outcome you want (such as losing weight or starting your own business) and all the work that it will take to achieve it, commit to taking a baby step that will move you forward in the direction you want to go.

But here's the catch! When you plan what action you will take, it's important to be very specific. Ask yourself the following questions: Exactly what am I willing to do?  When will I do it? How long will it take or how much time do I want to set aside for this first step? What could get in the way of doing this and what can I put in place to make sure that doesn't happen? Who can I ask to help me or hold me accountable to follow through? How will I measure my success? And lastly, what will I do to celebrate my successful action step?

As you plan what step you will take, think of ways to make it fun.
-Make a playlist of 25 of your favorite songs and work along to the music. When the playlist is finished your work is done!
-Ask a co-worker to spend 30 minutes helping you organize your papers or files and then head over to their office and do the same. When you are finished celebrate by taking a brisk walk outside to get some fresh air.
-Ask your best friend who lives in another city to be your accountability partner for a Saturday morning. You can each choose something that you want to accomplish and check-in every thirty minutes via text or Skype to update your progress. At the end of the specified time phone your friend to catch up, celebrate what you accomplished, and schedule your next accountability session!

Do you have other ideas to make taking the first step simple and fun? I'd love to hear from you and will be sure to share your tips on my blog.