Have you ever watched a toddler take their first steps? They don’t overthink it. They don’t wait for the perfect moment. They just let go and go for it. Sometimes they fall, but they get back up and try again.
Now, contrast that with how we, as adults, approach new challenges. We analyze, hesitate, and overthink until we convince ourselves to do nothing at all.
Why Overthinking Kills Momentum
We often fall into the trap of waiting for the “perfect moment”—to start that business, launch that creative project, or finally take control of our health. The truth? That perfect moment doesn’t exist.
A study by Tom Wujec, the creator of the Spaghetti Marshmallow Challenge, proves this. When given 20 spaghetti sticks, a yard of tape, a yard of string, and a marshmallow, who built the tallest structures? Not MBAs. Not engineers. Five-year-olds.
Why? Because kids act first and adjust as they go. They don’t waste time over-planning. They test, fail, and refine their approach.
TRY: The Key to Overcoming Inaction
To break free from overthinking, remember this acronym: TRY—Take Random Yanks.
Want to run a marathon? Run to your mailbox right now.
Want to write a book? Type out a terrible first sentence.
Want to start a business? List something on Facebook Marketplace today.
By taking random action, you build momentum, and momentum builds success.
Your Challenge: Start in 5 Minutes
Set a timer for five minutes and start something you’ve been avoiding. When you’re done, share your progress on Instagram or Facebook and tag @WalshMeGrow. Let’s turn hesitation into action—together.